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Do you need to replace U-bolts?
U-bolts are a vital part of your suspension system and should never be reused. Failure to replace or properly fit your U-bolts when maintaining or servicing your suspension could cause premature failure of your leaf springs or other components with catastrophic results.
What is the purpose of a U-bolt?
What Is a U-Bolt? When you break it down, a U-bolt is a bolt bent into the shape of the letter “u.” It’s a curved bolt that features threads on each end. Because the bolt is curved, it fits nicely around pipes or tubing. That means U-bolts can secure piping or tubes to a support and work as a restraint.
Do U-bolts stretch?
While the U-bolt has some flexibility in its ability to stretch after being loosened, the bolt will never tighten enough to allow it to regain its full torque spec potential. The next issue with trying to reuse U-bolts has to do with the threads themselves. When being tightened, the threads stretch out under torque.
What causes a center bolt to break?
The center bolt relies on the U-bolts and vice versa to maintain solid leaf springs on both sides of the rear axle of a truck. Consequently, if the U-bolts are too loose, the center bolt could eventually break due to pressure from the flexing leaves.
What are U-bolts used for on a truck?
U-Bolts are a crucial part to your truck’s suspension. These bolts keep the leaf springs of your suspension tied together. Without these, your truck’s suspension wouldn’t exist.
How tight should trailer axle U-bolts be?
Tighten all U-Bolts until they are snug only. Tighten in the sequence shown to approximately 1/3 of recommended torque.
Can u reuse U-bolts on leaf springs?
This is one of the single most commonly asked questions out there when discussing leaf springs and related components. We get a variety of reactions when we advise our customers that reusing U-bolts is never a good idea.
What should I put between leaf springs?
Modern leaf springs do not need lubricating with oil — which may damage any anti-friction material between leaves. Spray them instead with a silicone-based lubricant. With most modern cars, leaf springs are found mainly in the rear suspension. Raise the end of the car to clean them.
Why would u-bolts have to be tightened correctly?
centre bolts hold the spring together for assembly and help locate the spring onto the axle in the correct position. Correctly tightened ubolts are what holds the springs firmly in place on the vehicle when driving.