Removal of overload/helper leaf on a 66

[FickleLife]

Brains trust, What is the safest way to remove this overload / helper leaf that is on the underside / bottom of the leaf spring? It looks like it has some energy in it.

 https://imgur.com/a/ZYmwqcN

I guess the middle two points first and then it would “pop” down, then the two sides…

[Reborn67]

These “overider “ springs were big in the 70’s - 80’s, designed to give the rear end a bit of rigidity and lift, good for towing was the pitch l believe,
Because it is trying to increase the arch in the spring the outer clamps are mostly for location, the tension is in the clamps closest to the diff,
I would release the outers first and the inners next, slowly slowly, it may be easier if the car is jacked up and wheels slightly off the ground, may take a bit of tension out..,

[pmb0186]

There is a pile of thread on the u- bolts I would expect before you run out of thread it will be loose.

[AussiePhil]

Hey Ficklelife,

Not sure why you want to muck about with the springs.

But if you do want to go ahead.

If you’re not very mechanically experienced, don’t attempt!

1. Lift and support the rear of the car on the frame rails with car jacks.
2. Loosen the U bolts and lower axle with a floor jack about 1” and support with car jacks.
3. Use “big” G Clamps on either side of that spring, tight!
4. Don’t remove the factory fitted clamps.
5. Fit another “big” G clamp and hold the helper spring tight.
6. Loosen, but do not remove the spring Location bolt to Axle spring saddle. 3/8”unf?
7. Loosen and remove “big” G Clamp on the helper spring and remove the helper spring.
8. Refit the nut on the 3/8” unf bolt, and relocate into Axle Spring saddle, you’ll need to watch the extra depth of that bolt in the saddle.
9. Put back together.
10. Get a wheel alignment, mentioning you have played about with the rear axle.

https://images.app.goo.gl/ZwJGafe6eHWBFddu6

Cheers Phil.

[GEOFF289]

There is a pile of thread on the u- bolts I would expect before you run out of thread it will be loose.

I agree with this post entirely.

I reckon the task is being over thought. Back in my caravanning days I used these things on several Falcons and used to whip them on and off between trips all the time.