Do Leaf Spring Bolts Get Torqued Down

Question:

I need to chg out weak springs and lift unit about 2inch in the rear. Can i just use a bit longer shackle, along with my stronger leafs ? Also do shackles move back and forth once they are torqued. My old leaf are weak and flattened. Going with 2400#, old ones were 1750# rated. My biggest concern is the installation on shackles. How to hang them at correct angle. When I install new shackles, do I tighten then down with just the weight of the new leafs and the axle connected to get correct angle ? Cant find anything on utube about shackle alignment. Trying to do this first, but will do axle flip if this does not work. Thanks.

asked by: Steve M

Expert Reply:

Leaf spring shackle bolts don't get torqued down as that prevents them from being able to move as the suspension flexes. You will end up using lock nuts that just get tightened down till they sit flush and the nylon in the nut keeps it from backing off. If you need a 2 inch lift but are on springs that are totally flat new springs will get you to the height you are wanting.

If you can get me the length of your springs when they have not weight on them I can pick you out the correct leaf spring which hopefully will be a length that won't require moving hangers.

expert reply by: Jameson C