Springs Ubolt Question

[pound41]

Hello:
I and replacing a Lift Kit installed by the PO with a new Skyjacker Soft ride.
The stock backing plates that fit around the rear housing The ones that the ubolts go through are not there They have a new style where the u bolts go around the housing and the plate sits on top of the springs. Should I find the stock plates or use the ones from the other kit.
Thanks

[LONGHAIR]

I have seen it done both ways. One where the U bolts are somewhat square and sit over the springs, they go through a heavy casting and the nuts are at the bottom. The other style has round U bolts that span the axle housing. They usually have a thinner plate that the bolts pass through, the nuts are at the top.
I don't know that it matters much which way they are, either is secure. Personally, on an off-road truck, I prefer them with the rounded bolts w/nuts up. This is smoother, less snag-prone, less likely to be damaged by rocks, etc..