AH BJ8 REAR SPRING INSTALLATION

[BJ8TONY]

DO THE REAR SPRINGS ON A BJ8 HAVE TO BE INSTALLED IN A CERTAIN DIRECTION. SEEMS THE BRAKE LINES DON'T WANT TO LINE UP AND I DIDN'T KNOW IF REVERSING THE REAR LEAF SPRINGS WOULD MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

THANKS

 

[John_Progess]

Tony,
My 64 PH1 car had leaf springs that were 5/8" difference in total length. I installed them so that the distance from the front support to the axel centerline was equal. That put the length difference at the rear support for the shackle to handle. I also made sure that the axel was directly over the rubber pads on the frame. Hope this helps and have a good day!

John

 

[BJ8TONY]

I understand what you are saying but I think I need to find out the correct distance from the front shackle to what the centerline should be under the axle. And as you say any diffenence could be made up by the rear shackle.
Thanks for your help.

 

[GregW]

Hi Tony,
Here are a couple shots of my spring. There are differences. The eye for the front is larger since it takes a bearing. The rear just has a rubber bushing to fit the shackle.

 

[BJ8TONY]

Thanks much. Now that I see the pictures you sent I should have realized that myself. I am going through a complete restoration so as you know, LOTS of WORK.

 

[GregW]

Keeping track of all the details is a daunting task. There are two ways to assemble a BJ7-8 grill, the way that looks right, and the correct way. :eeek: