Axle U bolts

[Those]

We finally got a break in this Pennsylvania winter today. I spent 6 hours in garage and was able to pull the rear axle and leaf springs out and remove the springs from the axle. I never expected to get that far. I'm ordering new 1 inch over springs from ESPO. Now the questions. I found a quarter size hole in one frame rail And was wondering what gauge steel to use for a patch. Also I had to use heat on the U bolt nuts. I would like to reuse the U bolts. Does anyone think the heat might weaken the bolts?  I can't say enough about all the great people on this forum. So much knowledge and all you have to do is ask. Thanks to all replies.

[ted]

replace them

[dodj]

I would buy new u-bolts. They are not supposed to be re-used, though I have in the past, but if you torched them, I would be reluctant to re-use.

[RCCDrew]

Where can you get the factory style, that are compressed where they contact the axle?

[Bullitt-]

Where can you get the factory style, that are compressed where they contact the axle?

got mine from Mancini Racing
http://chucker54.stores.yahoo.net/springubolts.html

[usraptr]

I also got mine from Mancini and I agree, you need to replace them.

[Chryco Psycho]

I bet Espo has U bolts , do not reuse them

[72cudamaan]

Mopardave at Roseville also carries them. Might even be cheaper than Mancini's

[Those]

Thanks guys. Looks like its new bolts.

[publicbottle]

AMK has the factory type with the knurled radius. 40 bucks i think for the kit of 4 bolts with nuts (bottom of pg)

http://www.amkproducts.com/Catalog_PDF/24-38.pdf

As i am looking for UBolts now too, i called Mopar Performace to see if they had them in stock and they told me the ubolts are discontinued...oh well.....they were like 90bucks for the set!!!!!!!

[brads70]

When I bought new springs from ESPO they also supplied new u-bolts and shackles and bushings. One stop shopping!