New leaf spring questions

[viking71]

I'm starting my rebuild. Suspension parts from Duff. U-bolts didn't come with washers (are washers needed?). I am known to over tighten bolts. Does anyone know of a torque chart for the suspension bolts (front and rear)? I would add pics but I can't figure out how.

 

[aisawalsh]

I just bought the 2.5" lift system from Wild Horse and their U-bolts come with washers.

 

[broncodriver99]

Yes you should have washers. Off of the top of my head the rear u-bolt spec is about 125 ft./lbs. The front spring retainers aren't much. Maybe 50 ft./lbs.

Edit: The shop manual shows the axle ubolt spec is 45-60 which seems a little light to me.
The rear spring to hangers is 75-105.
It doesn't list a spec for the shackle.

 

[viking71]

Thanks guys. I think the U-bolts are 1/2". I'm not sure if that makes a difference. I have the 3.5" lift if that matters. The bolts are about 1.5" long. Should I cut them down?

 

[bronconut73]

You do not "have" to cut them down.
Regarding U-bolt torque. Snug them down good and tight....not too tight but tight. The most important thing about u-bolts is that they stretch a bit so retorque them often for awhile until they settle in to their final position.

 

[viking71]

bronconut73 do you also agree that I should have washers? I'm thinking it's prob best and going to run and get some. I wish they (Duff) supplied a complete pack. This kit wasn't cheap. All great stuff and happy with them but little things like that can be big. Just saying

 

[Swerve]

I don't know if this will help anyone, but I came across this recently while researching U-bolts...

http://www.suspensionspecialists.com/techinfo/Ubolt_Information.pdf

 

[cldonley]

I don't know if this will help anyone, but I came across this recently while researching U-bolts...

http://www.suspensionspecialists.com/techinfo/Ubolt_Information.pdf

That's a great thread!

 

[big blue]

Thanks guys. I think the U-bolts are 1/2". I'm not sure if that makes a difference. I have the 3.5" lift if that matters. The bolts are about 1.5" long. Should I cut them down?

Some aftermarket U-bolts are 9/16 and will not fit through a stock spring plate and yes you should use washers.