TRUCK SERVICE MANUAL
SPRINGS
are used, bend ends of clips down on top leaf. Heat
Spring pins too, require special attention while
clips with torch to help eliminate breakage.
installing as well as periodic checking after they have
been installed. Spring leaf failure may occur at the
Installation
spring eye, if the pin is improperly adjusted. If the pin is
drawn up too tightly in the bracket or shackle, a bind will
While the actual installation procedures will vary with
result.
The paragraphs which follow give special
each spring type, the pivot end of spring is usually
instructions for each type spring pin.
fastened to frame bracket first. Shackle end can then be
fastened by aligning shackle to other frame bracket.
2. Driven in type. Spring pins which are driven into
bracket or shackle require that the pin be aligned so
When installing U-bolts for securing axles, do not final
as to be able to install lock bolt through bracket or
tighten until spring have been placed under normal load.
shackle with pin in place (Fig. 7).
See 'Torque Chart for U-bolt torque specifications.
Spring failures may occur at the center bolt hole if U-
bolts become loosened. These bolts must be kept tight
and checked frequently.
TROUBLESHOOTING
The following list covers the most frequent causes for troubles which may occur in the suspension system. However,
several items may overlap similar complaints and causes that are common to axle and wheel alignment trouble shooting.
COMPLAINT
POSSIBLE CAUSE
1.
Truck wanders
a.
Front axle shifted on springs.
b.
Broken spring.
c.
Out of alignment.
2.
Truck bottoms
a.
Overloading.
b.
Too much lubricant on spring leaves.
c.
Broken spring leaves.
d.
Defective shock absorbers.
e.
Weak spring.
3.
Truck lopsided
a.
Broken spring leaves.
b.
Wrong spring installed.
c.
Weak spring.
4.
Frequent spring breakage
a.
Overloading or severe operation.
b.
Loose U-bolts.
c.
Loose center bolt.
d.
Defective shock absorbers.
e.
Improper adjustment on spring pin.
f.
Tight spring shackle.
g.
Too much lubricant on spring leaves.
5.
Noisy springs
a.
Loose U-bolts.
b.
Loose center bolt.
c.
Loose rebound clips.
d.
Loose shackles.
e.
Worn shackle bushings.
f.
Loose, bent or broken spring bracket
g.
Worn spring pins.
6
Erratic steering when braking
a.
Loose U-bolts.
b.
Loose center bolt.
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