Install new leaf springs

[87Ranger4me]

I just ordered new leaf springs from JC Whitney for my 87 Ranger.

http://www.jcwhitney.com/autoparts/Product/tf-VehicleBrowse/s-10101/Pr-p_Product.CATENTRY_ID:2005966/p-2005966/N-111+1987+200005312+600008403/c-10614

I was wondering what all will be involved in removing and replacing them?
Like will the shocks have to be removed, should I replace the bolts? They come with new bushings already. I have never done this before, so not sure what to expect. Any advise would be appreciated.

[bluovaldude]

Easiest way I did it was by removing the shocks, support the rear end and remove the tires for more clearance.

Once the rear end is supported remove the U-bolts and lower the rear end. Then un bolt the leaf springs.

Then just reverse the process when installing the new ones.

As for replaceing the U-bolts, I would recomend replacing them because being how old they are they have either stretched or you mey break them when removing them.

Plus if you have a new set on hand, it will not matter if you need to break them to get them out.

[volrath]

if you can take the box off too. you then have tons of room.

[trailblazr81]

Ive done this many times. PB Blaster and impact wrench are your friends. Ive broken some U-bolts in the past so replacing them may be a good idea. If they are stock size, then doing one side at a time helps keep the axle centered and your job a little easier. If no air tools, a big breaker bar and/or some pipe and a big hammer will probably be required.

[87Ranger4me]

Thanks for all your advise, the new springs showed up today on Fed Ex so I will be installing them this week sometime.

[blkmazda90]

HAHA....Eat your wheaties if they been there for a while

[87Ranger4me]

Okay, so I get to noticing that the new spring packs don't match. One has 4 leafs and the other has 3, but looking at the web site:

http://www.jcwhitney.com/autoparts/Product/tf-VehicleBrowse/s-10101/Pr-p_Product.CATENTRY_ID:2005966/p-2005966/N-111+1987+200005312+600008403/c-10614

the ones I ordered are the 4 leaf packs, so my question is, should I have them send me another 3 leaf pack or 4 leaf pack. The original springs that are on the truck now are the 3 leaf packs. I don't really want much lift, I'm more concerned about the ride and having it level in the back. Any ideas?

[87Ranger4me]

Bump, I have to call them Monday.

[volrath]

i think the 4 leafs would be fine. i think the lift would be minimal. and you could then haul more! the ride might suffer slightly though

[87Ranger4me]

Thanks, that's the conclusion I came to also, I'm going to go with the 4 leaf packs.

[trailblazr81]

Are the leave the same thickness? More thinner leaves will provide a better ride and moe flex than fewer thicker leaves.