on a scale of 1 to 10 how hard is it to replace ur leaf springs? i want to get under there some time next week.. just want to know what im getting self into. what else should i replace when im underthere... back end that is. what should i look for

 

Well it depends. If the front bolts arent seized up, then it is simple as cake. Simply jack the car up and place a set of stands under the frame rails (these should bear the car's weight) and another set under the differential (this isnt to bear weight but to hold it in place so it doesnt fall and kill u). Unbolt everything, slap the new ones in, and bolt everything back up. Id say a 3..

If the front bolts are seizes, its a pain in the butt. Mine would have been a good 7-8. You have to get a sawzaw (perferably) or atleast a 6.5 cutoff wheel and cut the bolt at 2 spots to allow it to fall down and out. Its not the bolt that seizes in the hole, but a metal sleeve inside the bushing that seizes to the bolt.

I'd put anti-seize lubricate on the front bolts when reinstalling new ones.

But overall, its simple...

 

Oh, and if you have the dough, go ahead and replace your rear shocks if you haven't already. You'll have to take them off anyways...

 

diddo, exactly what he said. im actually in the middle of doing mine right now. im also cleaning everything up with a wire wheel and giving it a fresh coat of rust paint. i have pics, but left my camera at my shop. ill try to post some more this weekend.

 

Yes, take pictures while you do it. I always do it so I have something to share and to track my progress.

I also cleaned up the pocket areas which were caked full of dirt...

 

From the 65 shop manual. Is that the pesky bushing you were talking about? Mine need replacment too but I was a little intimiated by the process described. The whole differential/rear axle comes loose when you do this, right?


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Gas hatchet works quick and you save the bolts!

 

Yes, thats the problem area but you dont have to remove the bushing, most new leaf springs come with the front bushing already installed. I think they have to be pressed in, so its just easier that way.

Yes, the differential will be completly loose (except for the driveshaft) so it will need supported. Since the diff. sits on top of the leafs, if you would just start buzzing off bolts without support, it would fall down to the floor....

 

Whats a gas hatchet?

 

Gas Hatchet - I have seen that used to refer to an oxy/acetylene cutting torch.