Rear leaf spring lateral play - bushings?

[agnes the dog]

When I replaced my front axle for a drop axle, I noticed that there was excessive side to side play in my front leaf springs. It seems that the spring eye bushings were pretty worn. I replaced the front springs (since I had another set) at that time and noticed that the play was greatly reduced.

I checked the rears and found even more play than the front. I'm assuming that these are the original springs with the original (or at least super-old) bushings that need to be replaced.

I also notice a significant left/right movement when going over a large bump such as a bridge approach. I do not feel the movement over a straight bump (90 degree approach), only when there is some angle to it (either a slight grade to the road or an angled approach). I don't have an issue when hitting a regular bump in the road as I would attribute to bump-steer, or at least my understanding of it.

Can the original spring eye bushings (rubber and all) be replaced? I really don't want to buy new springs unless I have to. Are there any options for poly bushings or is that only for newer trucks? Any advice or shared experience would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

JJ

[_Ogre]

as long as your spring eyes are in good shape, all the pins, bushings and shackles are replaceable
you don't say what yr truck you have, go to LMCtruck.com suspension parts start on page 89
and yes, these worn parts can create havoc on your steering

[agnes the dog]

Originally Posted by _Ogre

as long as your spring eyes are in good shape, all the pins, bushings and shackles are replaceable
you don't say what yr truck you have, go to LMCtruck.com suspension parts start on page 89
and yes, these worn parts can create havoc on your steering

Thanks! I guess I was only assuming that there was a rubber mount in there. After looking at some other pictures, I see that it's just the bushing inside the spring loop.

Ooops, forgot to mention it's a '59 3100.

I assume that this is just pressed in/out?

[_Ogre]

yes. put your truck year and model in your signature and you will never forget it again
no rubber, it's all steel and brass. keep it well lubricated.
if the bushings and pins have play, replace them all.
lots of little things with play add up to a lot of slop in the steering and back end

[agnes the dog]

Thanks Ogre.
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