Install new leaf springs


87Ranger4me

15+ Year Member

Joined
Aug 7, 2007
Messages
82
Points
3,101
City
Eagle Point OR
Vehicle Year
1987
Transmission
Automatic
I just ordered new leaf springs from JC Whitney for my 87 Ranger.

http://www.jcwhitney.com/autoparts/...005966/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.
 
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.
 
if you can take the box off too. you then have tons of room.
 
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.
 
Thanks for all your advise, the new springs showed up today on Fed Ex so I will be installing them this week sometime.
 
HAHA....Eat your wheaties if they been there for a while
 
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/...005966/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?
 
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
 
Thanks, that's the conclusion I came to also, I'm going to go with the 4 leaf packs.
 
Are the leave the same thickness? More thinner leaves will provide a better ride and moe flex than fewer thicker leaves.
 
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