Hi all!I finally got to the point of installing the rear spring to the frame and axle. anyone have a special way of spreading the spring to hook up the shackles? thanks. Ken
forgot to mention that i don`t have the body on the frame yet. thanks
Do a key word search on the forum for " spring spreader" . I made one from some pipe and all thread based on a discussion a few years back. I have also used C clamps between the backing plates and the shackle bushing to pull the bushing into place and fine tune the spread as suggested by another member here on the forum.
Ken,
I've never had/used a spring spreader. With the spring mounted in the frame, I've been able to lay short 2x4's on top of the axle housing next to the perches and rest the ends of the springs on them also and install one shackle. Then, if I can't put enough weight on the rear cross member and line it up, I take a ratchet tie down strap wraped around the differential and rear cross member and compress the spring til it lines up enough to install the shackle. Release the strap and knock out the 2x4's and you're done.
Uncle Jack (Daron) showed me a great way that works well. Put the shackles and perches on the spring. Get one side stuck in the axle and thread the nut on by a few threads. Then go to the other side and get the perch installed in that backing plate hole and thread the nut on. If the spring is arched too much then follow Mike Blacks technique.