Rear spring

[dh81k30]

Hi folks,

Thought I would ask here first.

My '86 C10 swb has started driving a bit erratically lately. I am fairly certain that the front end is in good shape. It has only been about two months since it had lower ball joints installed and an alignment. The other day I had the opportunity to get it on a lift to look for loose parts. The only thing I found is that the right side of the rear axle appears to be sliding back and forth on the rear spring about 3/4 inch. I think that there is supposed to be a locating pin to prevent this sliding.

Does anyone know what I need to fix this problem? Can I fix it or will I need to take it to a spring shop?

Any help will be appreciated.

[Texas Lefty]

The axle should not have any play on the spring. There is a locating pin on the axle housing and they do break off sometimes.Loosen the U-bolts carefully I would recomend some kind of lubicant like wd-40 before loosening.Then raise the truck off of the axle and look for that pin.If it is not there you can have the saddle welded directly to the axle housing.

[Zilverado]

I agree - that axle should not be moving around at all.

As for getting the u-bolts off, you might need something a little stronger than WD-40 to break the corrosion of 20+ years and get the nuts off. I did something similar a number of years ago, and ended up using my "blue-tipped" wrench to cut the bolts. Of course, you could always use a angle grinder as well. Just be carefull if you use a distructive method, because the u-bolts are typically in tension and come apart with a little energy - nothing too scary, just something to keep in mind. If you CAN back off the nuts, this is not an issue.

As for fixing the broken pin, I don't really know what to suggest. Never done that before. I assume someone else will chime in though.

[dh81k30]

Thanks guys,

I appreciate the help.