Can someone give me a brief tutorial on changing the rear coils. I have a '66 with no leaf springs. I have the shocks off at this point as they are original and dead. Will I need a spring compressor to get it done?
its very easy if you can get the bolts loose.i recommend you spray the bolts with pb blaster a day or two before.do one side at a time.take the bottom bolt out with the truck on the ground.then jack that side up untill the spring rises off the trailing arm.support the truck with a jackstand or something else solid.remove the top bolt and bolt in the new spring.
" remove the top bolt and bolt in the new spring" If your's is like most trucks, THIS step will give you fits ! The upper bolt that holds the spring retainer clip is frequently frozen and the spring prevents you from getting a good angle on it to break it free. I needed to cut my spring out with a cut-off wheel to get enough room to swing a breaker bar and socket around in there. If you contemplate using a flame wrench, be aware that the fuel and brake lines are running through the frame rail on the right side. I would recommend NOT using a torch to heat that bolt if it's stuck. DV
Thanks for the info. My tank is in the cab yet, so I don't have the gas line back there either. Should I free both springs at the same time (before jacking) since the tracking arm will still be attached? Seems like it could be a possible problem.
First use PB for a week on the bolts. Put the rear of the truck on stands. Put a jack under the pumpkin and bring the rear up just a little. Remove both shocks and lower rear end, then replace the springs. Raise rear end then install shocks. Done
>i don't have any gas lines behind the middle of my >truck.lol. OOPS !! I forgot everyone dosn't own a Panel Truck !!
Well, I got the springs off. I had to cut the upper bolt on one side. I have control arm bushings that need replacement also. Will I need to undo the u-bolts and take the arms out to work on the replacement?
"Will I need to undo the u-bolts and take the arms out to work on the replacement?" It's easier to do by removing the trailing arms. BUT ONLY DO ONE SIDE AT A TIME !! While they are out take the time to use a wire brush with some general puropse de-greaser and clean them up, shoot a coat of rattle-can epoxy primer and two or three coats of epoxy semi black. You will like what you see. DVal
Great information! I would like to replce the rusted coil spring bolts. Can I get away with Grade 8 or stainless steel bolts from a home supply store?
Grade 8 where ever you find them is what you want to use. A dab or two of thread lock when you are reassembling is good too. DV
