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1974 Jimmy

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This is super weird. The U-Bolts I took off are the same length. And there was 100% threads showing after the nuts were installed. I don’t get this at all. I need to order new U Bolts anyway as I took one off to check length against the old and the threads are now buggered up.
 
I don't like re-using Ubolts or the nuts or washers for that matter, so buy new longer ones. The finish added a little to each spring along with the sliders/bushings between. Also the new finish on the u bolts and plates. It adds up. On that note be sure to retorque after driving it a bit.
 
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I couldn’t use the old ones. They were too rusty and the threads were all mangled. I installed new. Aggravating that for a stock application LMC would send out U-Bolts that at too short.

With that said, the bolts look to be identical to what I took off so who knows. I’ll get new ones that are 1/2” longer.
 
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I’ve ran thousands upon thousands of miles like that. It will be fine if you run it. Doesn’t hurt to change though.

Martin
 
A safe rule of thumb is the industry standard of 1-1/2 times thread engagement of the diameter of the stud/bolt to have sufficient surface area contact.
 
What I took off didn’t have as tall of nuts. But, there was a good 1/2” of threads after the nut. The physics here has caused my brain to hurt.

I’ve already ordered the Tuff Country 17751 Springs Rear Axle U-Bolts 4wd for GMC Truck 1/2 ton.

These show to be 3/4” longer than what LMC sent me.
 
Go here and buy these. This is what I did and cut them to length.

www.offroaddesign.com

Individual Round U-Bolts

Silver zinc plated. 6" of 5/8"-18 RH thread. One u-bolt, two tall nuts and two washers. Torque to 135 ft. lbs.
www.offroaddesign.com www.offroaddesign.com
 
The frame is coming along nicely. I still need to get the front axle finished. I did go ahead and get the fuel tank installed as the rear is almost finished. I just need Tuff Country to ship the U-Bolts I ordered last Sunday. Once that is done the frame will be finished from the front axle area back.

I've started looking into wheels. The original wheels are long gone and I'm having a hard time finding what the original rims for a 74 Jimmy should have been. Anyone have a picture they can share? Or, possible a source for either original used or reproduction new wheels in the same style?
 
Do you have a SPID? Most likely came with 15"x6" stamped wheels, but could be a variety of different wheels. In '74, you could still get a 16.5" factory wheel.

Martin
 
Yep, with a L78-15B you got a basic 15”x6” stamped steel wheel. The Rally wheel was not available till the following year.

Here are the tires available for a ‘75 Blazer (would be pretty similar).

IMG_9456.jpeg

IMG_9457.jpeg

IMG_9458.jpeg

Martin
 
Any local spring shop can make you U bolts, any size you need. Did you change the rear springs ? That might account for the shorter bolts.
 
I did not change the rear springs. I’ve got Tuff Country U Bolts in order. Should ship on Thursday.

I don’t know why vendors can’t specify if something is in stock on their website.

Thanks for the wheel info.
 
If you want the stock looking appearance, but a little better looks, find a set of stock 15"x8" steel wheels. They are pretty to find civilian versions, but all the M1009 CUCV Blazers came with them.

Martin
 
Back lash is good. I like the coast side (which is drive side on front) Not sure about drive side. Try and pattern again, if it looks like that again maybe move pinion toward carrier, a little smidge
 
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