u bolt size?

[shadango]

I have decided to go with adding add-a-leafs  to bring my rear end up a little.....and I need to order new u bolts.

I measured the overall length to be 7", the inside length to be 6 1/2" (it being a 1/2" sized u bolt)....and the distance between the two centers of the "arms" of the ubolt is 3 5/8".  That would seem to indicate I have a 3" axle tube.

I have an 8 3/4" rear end.

Can someone confirm that this sounds right?

I guess the key sizing questions I have is: What size hole is in the plates for the u bolts and what size tube is the axle tube? 

I figure I will need to add a half inch for the add a leafs on the inside length, right?

When they list the length/size of a ubolt as "7", is that overall size or "inside" size?   

Thanks guys!

[Moparal]

3 inch axle tubes. But go 8 inch u bolts. Usually with a swaybar and pinion degree shims you have nothing extra on a 7 inch bolt.

[Bullitt-]

I just put these on my '73 with stock spring & sway bar.. plenty long for my needs
 Spring is almost 1.5" thick & have 1/2" threads left.

MANCINI - 7" U-bolts (Original OEM)
ORIGINAL OEM PART

Fits 8 3/4 - 9 1/4 and Dana 60 axle housings

- 3" Diameter axle
$39.95
MRE271-OEM
http://chucker54.stores.yahoo.net/springubolts.html

[shadango]

Thanks guys....

Moparal....the 8" bolt...is that 8" overall or inside measurement?  And does 1/2" sound right?

Bullitt---I am adding an add a leaf in addition to what is there stock so I need the extra 1/2" or so length...

[Moparal]

I am not sure if overall or inside   but I had stock leaf system on my barracuda and stock u bolts. When I put the rear swaybar on, and degree shims and extra leaf, I needed 8 inch u bolts. I never did measure them

[shadango]

Alright..thanks.  Guess I can always trim a little off once it is mounted if they are too long...but cant add metal if they are short.  LOL

[shadango]

These seem to be about right...cant find a 8".....I can trim, right?

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/AFC-20238/

[Chryco Psycho]

yes you need a 3" inside U bolt , 7" is the inside measurement  & yes it is a 1/2 bolt thread