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Any tips on how to install the leaf spring? The body is off, do I need extra weight? The manual shows the installer bending the spring with his hands? Do you use a chain, like when removing the coil springs? Any help is appreciated!
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Re: 64 coupe leaf spring
The number one rule for the rear spring is DO NOT tighten the holder (Center of spring plate) until you can get full curb weight on the suspension. If you fail to do this you potentially can break the ears off the diff housing trying to torque the bolts.
Along those same lines do not tighten the end caps on the "A" arms until the full weight is on the front suspension. This allows the rubber bushings to be "neutral" at rest under the curb weight.
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Re: 64 coupe leaf spring
Steve, I also have all the bolts to all the rear suspension loose. When is the appropriate time to torque them all down? I will put a few shims on the trailing arms to get them snug so they can be aligned.Comment
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Re: 64 coupe leaf spring
Basically anything that is bolted in place and can "move" with vehicle weight changes should be torqued with the "curb weight" of the vehicle on it. I believe there are notes to this affect in your AIM. Remember, the weight must be on it so if you place the car on stands to access the suspension bolts make sure you are supporting the wheels and not the frame with the stands.Comment
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Re: 64 coupe leaf spring
I've got the body off my '63 and when I put the rear spring in, I first got it bolted onto the differential (not tight). Then, I cut a piece of 2x4 by approx 8" long (forget exactly how long) to lie under the spring with one end against the retaining plate. I then used two pieces of scrap channel iron and two pieces of 1/2" threaded rod. One piece of channel went over the differential crossmember, the other under the spring up against the 2x4. The threaded rods went down on either side of the crossmember and spring. When pulling up on the spring with the threaded rods, the 2x4 keeps the lower channel from sliding. I pulled each end of the spring up far enough until I was able to connect the bolt to the back end of the trailing arm. Also, you should have the shocks in place to limit the travel of the trailing arm downwards, or you might break something.
I'm at work now, but I may be able to email you some pictures and dimensions from home.Comment
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Re: 64 coupe leaf spring
Thanks, all. Pete, I could sure use the pictures. Someone also mentioned to me to get a few 300 pounders to sit on the frame for weight?Comment
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