removing axel and springs

[wazzabie]

How difficult would it be to remove the axle and springs as one unit. I intend to swap out the 1/2 ton axles with 1ton and add springs. It would like to keep the 1/2 ton stuff in tack springs and axles. Plus I don't have to mess with removing the u bolts. thoughts?

 

[chulisohombre]

should be pretty easy.unbolt the spring ends and the drag link and brake calipers.unbolt the drive shaft and roll it out.depending on the rust on the inside sleeve and bushings on the springs,that would be the hardest thing to unbolt.

 

[63chevyll]

Easy if you have the room

 

[sweetk30]

can be done yes.

dont forget true 1 ton rear springs are 56" long eye to eye .

1/2 ton and light 3/4 ton are 52" long eye to eye .

and if the rear axle is from a 1 ton and swapin in to a 1/2 ton or 3/4 ton frame it will require removing the shock tabs and axle perches and rewelding them in diffrent spot. as 1ton had diffrent spacing to clear drw axles and the tires from rubbin the springs.

 

[wazzabie]

after pulling the axles I'm just going to store them outside under a tarp. I don't have room for them in the shop. I still want to hang on to them.

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

If the springs are stock make one quick attempt to get the spring bolts out and if they're stuck just cut through the bushing and bolt. Don't waste your time with anything else, they are almost always rusted solid.

Other than that just disconnect the driveshaft, vent and brake lines.

 

[K85 Octane]

pfff too many steps
just leave the driveshaft, it'll come apart

and I think my 56s were from a 3/4 burb, but that might change things right there.

 

[sweetk30]

yep some 3/4 tons had 52" or 56" for rear springs. just need to measure.