Leaf Spring R&R

[EMCD]

How long would you estimate it would take a first timer to R&R a set of S&T rear leafs in a 1971 Cuda?

[burdar]

It all depends on rust.  Are you going to torch off the U-bolts or are you going to unbolt them?  If they are rusty, it's going to take awhile.  Are the front spring mount studs rusty?  If so, you're probably going to break a stud or two.(or all of them)  Are you putting new front hangers on the new springs or reusing the original hangers?  If the main eye bolt is rusted inside the spring bushing, it's going to be a PITA.  Not trying to scare you but there are a lot of unknowns which makes it hard to estimate a time.

[7212Mopar]

You will need a minimum 1/2" drive and a real long breaker bar to loosen the front hanger eyebolt. I used my floor jack handle for extension. That should be loosen first before taking the hanger bolts out. Don't forget to support both the axle and the body with jack stands, body first and then the axle. Have fun. Torque bolts only with weight of car on spring.

[EMCD]

it's a Colorado car, not rusty at all, but they've been on since day one. sounds like I need to hit them with PB Blaster over a period of weeks to get things loosened up. I was going to get new ubolts at a minimum. all the other metal looks fairly clean. is it worth buying all new? are they that much of a wear item?

[burdar]

U bolts are supposed to be a one time use item. Some don't replace them though.

Even if everything comes apart easily, I'd set aside an afternoon if it's your first time. Replace the shackle bushings while it's apart.

[EMCD]

Thanks. I'll have to remove the rear valance on the cuda, right/ any while I'm in there kind of things to consider?

[burdar]

With the suspension hanging, I think the shackles should rotate forward enough so you don't have to remove the valance.

[EMCD]

Cool, I'll order up the springs and get to it

[jimynick]

Make sure the rear shackles move in both the frame and spring eye as they need to both be free to get it out of the rail/spring and they're notorious for one or the other being seized in. An air hammer with a blunt ended chisel judiciously applied inside the shackle near said pins can be your friend, too. Not a fun job. 

[larry4406]

Yes the Cuda rear valence needs to come off.