RA5 Differential and Leaf Springs

Thanks for all the info! I really appreciate it.
I contacted St.Louis Spring and he's making me springs. Price seemed good too!
Thanks again

U bolts?

I think I will just sand blast and reuse the existing u-bolts. They don't look bad.

The conventional wisdom is to never re-use the U-bolts. They stretch with the torque, and are probably as old as the vehicle. I wouldn't think a pleasant experience to have the axle depart from the truck, and they aren't that expensive. I'd suggest new bushings and new u-bolts, but it isn't my truck.

Yeah, they are torque to yield, My place charges about $25 to bend new, + installation cost, still cheap insurance. I never snapped one but have had them come loose after a re- tightening. Once they streach from the 1st torqueing, they will start to thin from additional torque and will be a problem down the road.

I don't know the answer, when I installed my Dana 60 many years back, I when with 5/8s U bolts. Did not like 1/2 bolts.

Wow, I had know idea about the u bolts. I'll definitely replace them. I am going to look for new bushings as well.
Thanks! You guys are awesome!