Spring Leaf Replacement (Tandem Axle)

Spring Leaf Replacement (Tandem Axle)

Removal Procedure




1. Remove the rear spring assembly. Refer to Leaf Spring Replacement (Single Axle) Leaf Spring Replacement (Single Axle)Leaf Spring Replacement (Tandem Axle U-340 Type) Leaf Spring Replacement (Tandem Axle U-340 Type)Leaf Spring Replacement (Tandem Axle RT-400 Type) Leaf Spring Replacement (Tandem Axle RT-400 Type).
2. Disassemble and place the spring assembly in a vise or an arbor press next to the center bolt.

Notice: Do not use a machinist's scribe or a screwdriver to match/mark spring leaves. Marking the spring leaves with any sharp tool can cause metal stress and could contribute to early fatigue and malfunction.

3. Mark the spring assembly on one side using a grease pencil or chalk.




4. Remove the rebound bolts (6) and the nuts from the spring rebound clips.
5. Remove the weld from the bolt head and the rebound clip, if welded. Use a cold chisel in order to remove the weld.
6. Remove the center bolt. File off the peened end of the bolt in order to remove the nut.





Caution: Relieve the spring tension slowly. Spring leaves are under great pressure and could fly apart causing serious injury.

7. Remove the spring assembly.
8. Clean the spring leaves with a brush if necessary. Do not disturb the alignment marks.
9. Inspect the spring leaves for cracks or breaks.
10. Inspect the rebound clips for cracks or breaks.
11. Inspect the center bolt hole for distortion or wear.

Installation Procedure





Caution: Compress the spring leaves slowly. Spring leaves will be under great pressure and could come apart causing serious injury.

1. Perform the following steps in order to install the spring assembly:

1. Stack the leaves in the correct order.
2. Apply a thin film of graphite grease to each leaf.
3. Align the center bolt holes in the spring leaves using a long drift.
4. Compress the spring leaves in a vise or an arbor press.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.

2. Install a new center bolt and nut.

Tighten the center nut to 81 Nm (60 lb ft).

3. Peen the end of the bolt.
4. Remove the spring assembly from the vise or the arbor press.
5. Cut the new center bolt to the proper length.





Important: Tighten the rebound clips enough in order to hold the spring leaves in alignment, but not tight enough to restrict the free movement of the leaves.


6. Install the rebound clips with new bolts and nuts. Align the leaves using a soft faced hammer, if needed.
7. Peen the end of the rebound bolts.
8. Install the rear spring assembly. Refer to Leaf Spring Replacement (Single Axle) Leaf Spring Replacement (Single Axle)Leaf Spring Replacement (Tandem Axle U-340 Type) Leaf Spring Replacement (Tandem Axle U-340 Type)Leaf Spring Replacement (Tandem Axle RT-400 Type) Leaf Spring Replacement (Tandem Axle RT-400 Type).