Help w/ repairing Exp

[ImhotepMD]

My exp was hit several months ago in the driver's rear. Estimate is too much to do entire repair at body shop. What I need advice on is the rear axile was pushed forward maybe an inch, rear leaf is bent. The frame is intact and the axil is in good shape, damage to the panel but will have done by shop. So I need advice on how to replace leaf, and is it possible to pull axil back. After pulling back I'll be able to replace rim and tire. Thanks

 

[boominXplorer]

You sure you dont have a bent shackle? Leaf packs are usually pretty strong. To change the leaf spring....
1-jack the truck up by the body.
2-put wood or another jack under the rear diffy to hold it once you undo the bolts.
3-take tire off so you can see it easier
4-undo the rear shackle bolts
5-undo the front shackle bolts
6-undo the nuts of the U-bolts on the bottom of the shock mount plate
6-then the leaf should come right out.

Tips:
-Use lots of PB plaster or WD-40
-Make sure the diffy does not drop down much because it can mess up your E-brake cable

If you have any other questions you can PM me if you would like

 

[ImhotepMD]

Thanks. Any ides on if it would be possible to pull the axile back. It went forwar by 1 inch. Also for jacking the car up better to do it on the side under the passenger door or the body frame?

 

[boominXplorer]

well jack it up by the frame right under the rear pass door. do it as close to the rear leaf spring bracket. Just make sure you jack it up by the frame not the suspention

 

[chris c]

just a stab in the dark here since i can't see the vehicle. is it possible that the spring plate / axle were just knocked foward on the leaf spring? i can't see the leaf spring itself bending to easily. either the front leaf spring bracket bent or the axle / spring assembly was knocked foward on the leaf spring.

 

[Robb]

The only thing that could push the axle forward is bent leafs, bent shackles, or bent spring mounts. All of these parts are pretty easily replacable. I see you are in Richmond, you can pick up all those parts for under $50 at Chesterfield Auto Parts.

 

[ImhotepMD]

The top leaf is bent downward. I think everything else is o.k. with the suspension. When the car was hit, it was parked and a guy driving to fast swiped it. Can definitly get pictures after work.

 

[boominXplorer]

pics would really help

 

[ImhotepMD]

Just got through with inspecting and taking off rim. Looking at things not sur what to make of it. I think the force of the collision slid the axile forward a little, but the top leaf is definitly bent. The rear shackle is out of place compared to the other side, it seems pushed forward. Took pictures in case anyone wants to take a look to see if it's worth fixing. Just send me your email.

 

[ImhotepMD]

o.k new problem. The collision bent the gas tank shield into the gas tank. Can't tell if the tak is punctured, but definetly has dent from shield. I know I can't repair that myself. How much ruffly would it cost to have fixed at a shop. Had a chance to go to local junk yard and priced leeaf springs. $28 . The estimate from body shop was $200 for 1 new one!