Leaf spring repair
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Leaf spring repair
How tough is it to put new rear leaf springs on my 1994 Ford Ranger, 2WD, manual tranny, V6, 3.0L, extended cab truck? One of the leafs i broken. Is this a do-it-yourself project or should a garage do it? Thanks.
Chris
Chris
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If you have a good jack and jackstands, there's no reason why you can't do it yourself. Make certain that the frame is well supported by the jackstands before removing any of the springs and only do one side at a time. Just soak the bolts down with PB Blaster or some other kind of penetrating oil the night before the job. You should swap out the u-bolts and shackles while you're at it.
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Freshman User
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Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm, sounds like a big job. I have a professional jack and stands, but I am going to need some step by step directions. Anyone have any? Thoughts? Also, only 1 side is broken. Can I replace only 1 side or do I need to do them both?
Thanks.
Thanks.
Last edited by 1994 Ford MN; Apr 28, 2006 at 04:12 PM.
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From: toronto
it can be done at home but for the price its much easer to take it to a spring shop. it can be done at home but u will need a c clamps an they can get to be under a lot of pressure an blow up at u. i use to work in a spring shop an thye would jump at us from time to time
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2003
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From: Eastern WA
Once the vehicle is supported on jackstands and with the tire off the ground, there is effectively no preload in the leaf spring. The arc in the spring is established during fabrication of the leaf spring (not due to spring installation on the frame) and the shackels pivot so again, no preload. Considering that there are just a few bolts holding the spring to the frame as well as the u-bolts C/T the spring and axle, this is a straightforward DIY job. To maintain a level vehicle, I would suggest two new springs. If you want to cut a corner and save a few bucks, get a used spring from the passenger side of a wreck. Make sure it has the same load rating as what you have now.
Last edited by CowboyBilly9Mile; May 1, 2006 at 12:51 AM.
