first why wouldnt it work? both EX and SD use the same axles springs and clamps so if SD are that way and they both have 3 inch springs why would turning them the right way not work? are the holes not wide enough or what

 

Scaler is right. I just went out to my truck again, and my upper plate is on 90 degrees to yours, with the raised edges facing forward and backward. I looked in a couple of shop manuals, and they all show the F series and Excursion that way. I measured the 4 holes in the plate, and if you can twist those plates, your U-bolts will be about 1/2" closer together like they should be. Those U-bolts should be hugging the pedestal that the spring sits on. It's possible that you have the wrong U-bolts, as Ford had two different axle tube sizes, and the difference was about 12MM or a 1/2 inch. You may have to get U-bolts for the smaller diameter axle tubes.



RON

 

Ok thanks for doing those measurements maybe you guys are right I'm just positive I did that. But it make sense if it move the u-bolts closer in preventing the leafs from turning. I will give that a shot. I didn't really like the u-bolts the sent me anyway they were way to long to where I couln't even get my torque wrench on so I had to shave them down. You guys think I should get new u-bolts? I will just go with a cheaper brand bolt because icon wants $80 for 2 new pairs.

 

Wherever you get them from, make sure they are for the 108 mm diameter axle tubes. Ford has U-bolts listed for the Ford axle as 108 mm diameter tubes and for the Dana axle as 118 mm diameter tubes. You probably have the U-bolts for the larger diameter tubes. You can probably straighten out the plates with a BFH, or hopefully they will spring back into shape after you loosen the nuts. Just make sure that whatever U-bolts you get, they should hug the axle tube fairly tight--you may even have to hammer them up onto the tube. If you live or work near a fairly large city, hopefully there should be a spring shop there. You should be able to pick up a set of 4 for under $50.


RON

 

I see you are in Colorado. If you are near Denver, go to Denver Spring they can make them to what ever specs you want. I had them make mine.

 

Ok thanks guys that's why I love this website.

 

never reuse U-bolts..

they are torque to yield bolts..

only good for one tension, then replace.