Wanted - Spring Hanger Bracket - '71 4x4 - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

Barben · 08-05-2005, 05:54 PM

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Just started to work on a one-owner '71 C/10 SWB 4x4. My Dad bought it new and really used it on the family's Norcal rice farm. A couple years ago it was stolen and recovered. The bad guys broke the driver-side front-front spring hanger off of the frame. Dad tried to stick weld it and dripped most of the mounting surfaces onto the shop floor. This is the car-I-learned-to-drive and want to keep it stock.

Anybody have bracket to sell?

Americanrider · 08-06-2005, 01:04 AM

It would be better to post a pic. Do you need the front-rear hanger or rear-rear hanger. I have a couple off a 2wd 71 laying around but it's best to make sure it's the same before you spend any of your hard earned dollars.

nu2-72 · 08-06-2005, 09:25 AM

You are speaking about the front leaf spring hanger for 4x4 with the plate across the front ? I have some but am at work now and computer at home is down. I can look and check back with you later if OK.

Barben · 08-06-2005, 09:26 AM

Thanks, Boone. I'll add a couple of pictures. It is the front-front hanger.

Barben · 08-06-2005, 09:40 AM

Nu2-72 - Yes, I think that's the one, if it matches the newly added pics.

nu2-72 · 08-09-2005, 01:27 PM

I looked at what I have and it would take two to make one. Probably not worth the effort.

Barben · 08-23-2005, 11:47 PM

nu - Thanks for looking at your stock. Any suggestions for a repair? Build from scratch or fix this bum one?

**Richard** · 08-24-2005, 01:30 AM

I know I have a pair that I will not use. I purchased a whole set of hangers a while back. I can get some pics but it will most likely be on the weekend.

nu2-72 · 08-26-2005, 02:08 PM

My suggestion is to not weld it. Ed at Mothertruckers has the correct rivets and a replacement would be best.
If you notice the drivers side has a front plate on it and the passenger side does not. That plate is there for spring failure to protect the steering. If the spring should break, it cannot stretch out and drop the drivers side of the truck putting the steering in a bind.
I think Ron Manes in KC, Mo. had sone at his shop. Might look him up and give a call.

nu2-72 · 08-27-2005, 04:14 PM

I am an excellent welder and was not suggesting to weld it to the frame either. What scares me is someone that suggests welding before considering all options and expenses. And if welding is the best option, so be it.
I have looked very carefully at the pics and at least one rivet is missing to the frame and the upper bracket to lower bracket is a mess. It should be removed for proper prep and repair. And if I am going to be into it that far, well then.
I was suggesting that it be fixed correctly. They are stamped pieces with many bends and curves. Welds are strongest when left alone after the weld. Therefore many welds would be visible. For my time and money, they can be cut off, re-attached with the correct rivets and look and perform exactly as original. No weld beads, no hours under the truck and exact appearance. Cheap and correct.
But then I run a machine and fab shop so I insist that things be right.

nu2-72 · 08-29-2005, 07:14 AM

Relax guy. If under 50 is a younger guy, count me in. If you see, he asked my opinion and after looking at the photos, i made a suggestion.
There was no personal attack to you and if you feel that way, do the adult thing and direct it at me. Not him. If he wishes to take you up on your offer, great. Help him out.
Otherwise, take some blood pressure meds and relax. You old guys get so worked up. LOL

Barben · 08-29-2005, 04:50 PM

The repair or replace question for me depends on if I can get the correct parts. I'd prefer to replace the hanger. The differences between sides are as you described. The passenger side doesn't have the plate across the front.

Nu - I'll be looking for Ron Manes in KC, Mo and Ed at Mothertruckers for the goods to do what's right for me and the truck. Thanks for the leads.

The truck doesn't steer well since the hanger is completely free to rotate on the one good rivet-to-frame connection. It's in the Scramento area, so getting it to Olden Days to do some work on it is a project unto itself.

As our wives, mothers and significant others know, all men are youngsters, epecially the ones hobbies like ours!

**Richard** · 09-02-2005, 12:22 AM

I have some pics now. Just need to resize them.

LUV2XCLR8 · 09-02-2005, 07:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nu2-72

If you notice the drivers side has a front plate on it and the passenger side does not.
That plate is there for spring failure to protect the steering. If the spring should break,
it cannot stretch out and drop the drivers side of the truck putting the steering in a bind.

Great info, I wondered what that plate was on "GQ"

Barben · 01-25-2006, 12:11 AM

Got richards hanger awhile back and finally got to grind off the old one tonight. The pricess involved removing the bed, stripping the cab, removing fenders, radiator and engine externals. Thought that since I was fixing the hanger, I might as well do a cab-off preservation.... Now I get to learn how to rivet.

nu2-72 · 01-26-2006, 09:22 PM

In order to rivit mine, I used an air impact hammer. Bought a set of air chisel tools and cut one of them off. I cut one with the shank closest to 9/16" diameter. I then drilled into the end of the shaft to create a pocket or dimple.
Put the rivit into the holes and c-clamp the parts together. You can use a small piece of 1/4" steel and drill a 1/2" dimple into it to use as a retainer for the head side of the rivit while you impact. Heat the rivit with a torch to cherry red on the shank side and then impact.
Does this make any sense?
If the rivit is held in place securely by a dimpled plate on the head side and a dimpled shaft is used on the other side, they will look just like factory. Head on one side and a pretty mushroom on the other. If you try to hold the head side with a flat piece of material,the heat transfer will soften the head and the pounding will flatten out the head and look funny.
But remember also, these trucks were put together on an assembly line and even some of my factory rivits look like crap so beauty is in the eye of whomever.
Good luck.

Barben · 01-28-2006, 12:01 AM

Nu - Clear as shine! Thanks. Ed at Mothertruckers has been helpfull, too.

I like the plate-with-dimple idea. I've been stuck on the idea of a buck tool. Seems less likely I'll need to visit the burn center if a c-clamp is involved.

The original rivits were far from perfectly driven, but they sure were tight. Only one of the five I attacked with the grinder could be easily driven out.

Now only if the spring would let go of the bracket.

08-05-2005, 05:54 PM	#1
Barben Registered User Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: CenCal Posts: 36	Wanted - Spring Hanger Bracket - '71 4x4 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Just started to work on a one-owner '71 C/10 SWB 4x4. My Dad bought it new and really used it on the family's Norcal rice farm. A couple years ago it was stolen and recovered. The bad guys broke the driver-side front-front spring hanger off of the frame. Dad tried to stick weld it and dripped most of the mounting surfaces onto the shop floor. This is the car-I-learned-to-drive and want to keep it stock. Anybody have bracket to sell? Attached Images Last edited by Barben; 08-06-2005 at 10:39 AM. Reason: Clarifying and adding photos

08-06-2005, 09:25 AM	#3
nu2-72 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: Amazonia, Mo. USA Posts: 2,821	You are speaking about the front leaf spring hanger for 4x4 with the plate across the front ? I have some but am at work now and computer at home is down. I can look and check back with you later if OK. __________________ 72 3/4 4x4 350 4spd 72 3/4 4x4 350 auto 2004 Duramax Silverado 4x4 2006 Duramax Crew cab 4x4 2010 Harley Ultra Limited 2011 Harley Street Glide

08-09-2005, 01:27 PM	#6
nu2-72 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: Amazonia, Mo. USA Posts: 2,821	I looked at what I have and it would take two to make one. Probably not worth the effort. __________________ 72 3/4 4x4 350 4spd 72 3/4 4x4 350 auto 2004 Duramax Silverado 4x4 2006 Duramax Crew cab 4x4 2010 Harley Ultra Limited 2011 Harley Street Glide

08-24-2005, 01:30 AM	#8
Richard Senior Member Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: Southern California Posts: 2,906	I know I have a pair that I will not use. I purchased a whole set of hangers a while back. I can get some pics but it will most likely be on the weekend. __________________ Richard 1972 K10 Custom Deluxe SWB Fleetside My build https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=800746

08-26-2005, 02:08 PM	#9
nu2-72 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: Amazonia, Mo. USA Posts: 2,821	My suggestion is to not weld it. Ed at Mothertruckers has the correct rivets and a replacement would be best. If you notice the drivers side has a front plate on it and the passenger side does not. That plate is there for spring failure to protect the steering. If the spring should break, it cannot stretch out and drop the drivers side of the truck putting the steering in a bind. I think Ron Manes in KC, Mo. had sone at his shop. Might look him up and give a call. __________________ 72 3/4 4x4 350 4spd 72 3/4 4x4 350 auto 2004 Duramax Silverado 4x4 2006 Duramax Crew cab 4x4 2010 Harley Ultra Limited 2011 Harley Street Glide

08-06-2005, 01:04 AM	#2
Americanrider Registered User Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: NW, WA. Posts: 1,421	It would be better to post a pic. Do you need the front-rear hanger or rear-rear hanger. I have a couple off a 2wd 71 laying around but it's best to make sure it's the same before you spend any of your hard earned dollars.

08-06-2005, 09:26 AM	#4
Barben Registered User Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: CenCal Posts: 36	Thanks, Boone. I'll add a couple of pictures. It is the front-front hanger.

08-06-2005, 09:40 AM	#5
Barben Registered User Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: CenCal Posts: 36	Nu2-72 - Yes, I think that's the one, if it matches the newly added pics.

08-23-2005, 11:47 PM	#7
Barben Registered User Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: CenCal Posts: 36	nu - Thanks for looking at your stock. Any suggestions for a repair? Build from scratch or fix this bum one?

08-27-2005, 04:14 PM	#10
nu2-72 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: Amazonia, Mo. USA Posts: 2,821	I am an excellent welder and was not suggesting to weld it to the frame either. What scares me is someone that suggests welding before considering all options and expenses. And if welding is the best option, so be it. I have looked very carefully at the pics and at least one rivet is missing to the frame and the upper bracket to lower bracket is a mess. It should be removed for proper prep and repair. And if I am going to be into it that far, well then. I was suggesting that it be fixed correctly. They are stamped pieces with many bends and curves. Welds are strongest when left alone after the weld. Therefore many welds would be visible. For my time and money, they can be cut off, re-attached with the correct rivets and look and perform exactly as original. No weld beads, no hours under the truck and exact appearance. Cheap and correct. But then I run a machine and fab shop so I insist that things be right. __________________ 72 3/4 4x4 350 4spd 72 3/4 4x4 350 auto 2004 Duramax Silverado 4x4 2006 Duramax Crew cab 4x4 2010 Harley Ultra Limited 2011 Harley Street Glide

08-29-2005, 07:14 AM	#11
nu2-72 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: Amazonia, Mo. USA Posts: 2,821	Relax guy. If under 50 is a younger guy, count me in. If you see, he asked my opinion and after looking at the photos, i made a suggestion. There was no personal attack to you and if you feel that way, do the adult thing and direct it at me. Not him. If he wishes to take you up on your offer, great. Help him out. Otherwise, take some blood pressure meds and relax. You old guys get so worked up. LOL __________________ 72 3/4 4x4 350 4spd 72 3/4 4x4 350 auto 2004 Duramax Silverado 4x4 2006 Duramax Crew cab 4x4 2010 Harley Ultra Limited 2011 Harley Street Glide

08-29-2005, 04:50 PM	#12
Barben Registered User Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: CenCal Posts: 36	The repair or replace question for me depends on if I can get the correct parts. I'd prefer to replace the hanger. The differences between sides are as you described. The passenger side doesn't have the plate across the front. Nu - I'll be looking for Ron Manes in KC, Mo and Ed at Mothertruckers for the goods to do what's right for me and the truck. Thanks for the leads. The truck doesn't steer well since the hanger is completely free to rotate on the one good rivet-to-frame connection. It's in the Scramento area, so getting it to Olden Days to do some work on it is a project unto itself. As our wives, mothers and significant others know, all men are youngsters, epecially the ones hobbies like ours!

09-02-2005, 12:22 AM	#13
Richard Senior Member Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: Southern California Posts: 2,906	I have some pics now. Just need to resize them. __________________ Richard 1972 K10 Custom Deluxe SWB Fleetside My build https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=800746

01-25-2006, 12:11 AM	#15
Barben Registered User Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: CenCal Posts: 36	Re: Wanted - Spring Hanger Bracket - '71 4x4 Got richards hanger awhile back and finally got to grind off the old one tonight. The pricess involved removing the bed, stripping the cab, removing fenders, radiator and engine externals. Thought that since I was fixing the hanger, I might as well do a cab-off preservation.... Now I get to learn how to rivet.

01-26-2006, 09:22 PM	#16
nu2-72 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: Amazonia, Mo. USA Posts: 2,821	Re: Wanted - Spring Hanger Bracket - '71 4x4 In order to rivit mine, I used an air impact hammer. Bought a set of air chisel tools and cut one of them off. I cut one with the shank closest to 9/16" diameter. I then drilled into the end of the shaft to create a pocket or dimple. Put the rivit into the holes and c-clamp the parts together. You can use a small piece of 1/4" steel and drill a 1/2" dimple into it to use as a retainer for the head side of the rivit while you impact. Heat the rivit with a torch to cherry red on the shank side and then impact. Does this make any sense? If the rivit is held in place securely by a dimpled plate on the head side and a dimpled shaft is used on the other side, they will look just like factory. Head on one side and a pretty mushroom on the other. If you try to hold the head side with a flat piece of material,the heat transfer will soften the head and the pounding will flatten out the head and look funny. But remember also, these trucks were put together on an assembly line and even some of my factory rivits look like crap so beauty is in the eye of whomever. Good luck. __________________ 72 3/4 4x4 350 4spd 72 3/4 4x4 350 auto 2004 Duramax Silverado 4x4 2006 Duramax Crew cab 4x4 2010 Harley Ultra Limited 2011 Harley Street Glide



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01-28-2006, 12:01 AM	#17
Barben Registered User Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: CenCal Posts: 36	Re: Wanted - Spring Hanger Bracket - '71 4x4 Nu - Clear as shine! Thanks. Ed at Mothertruckers has been helpfull, too. I like the plate-with-dimple idea. I've been stuck on the idea of a buck tool. Seems less likely I'll need to visit the burn center if a c-clamp is involved. The original rivits were far from perfectly driven, but they sure were tight. Only one of the five I attacked with the grinder could be easily driven out. Now only if the spring would let go of the bracket.

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