Leaf Spring Anti-squeak Pads

[AZJeff]

How hard is it to install new anti-squeak pads between the leaves of a spring when it’s on the vehicle?

 

Any special suggestions for separating the end of the leaves to remove the old pad and install a new one?

[ghetdjc320]

3 hours ago, AZJeff said:

How hard is it to install new anti-squeak pads between the leaves of a spring when it’s on the vehicle?

 

Any special suggestions for separating the end of the leaves to remove the old pad and install a new one?

The ones under the main leaf will not become accessible by jacking up the truck. The ones beneath that may open up if you jack it up pretty high from the from or bumper. Otherwise just jack it up a bit and remove the leaf pack and reinstall one side at a time. Easy to do in the driveway

[BeatCJ]

Does anyone know what pads are used? I rebuilt 4 Waggoneer springs for my CJ, and had to buy a bag of 100. 2 1/2 inch square, oval button to retain them. I have quite a few, would be more than willing to help out at cost. Shipping in a flat rate envelope will be more than the pads, they are 15₵ each.

[AZJeff]

11 hours ago, ghetdjc320 said:

The ones under the main leaf will not become accessible by jacking up the truck. The ones beneath that may open up if you jack it up pretty high from the from or bumper. Otherwise just jack it up a bit and remove the leaf pack and reinstall one side at a time. Easy to do in the driveway

I was wondering if I (1)jacked up the vehicle so the axle hangs at full extension and then (2)hammer a wedge into the juncture between the two leaves to make some space, and then "coerce" the old pad out, and the new pad in.  

 

The trick is going to be how to drive in a wedge that I can then get back out.   I have an air hammer that I KNOW will drive in a wedge, but getting it out is another story.....

 

Anyone have any ideas?

[89 MJ]

10 minutes ago, AZJeff said:

Anyone have any ideas?

Just pull and disassemble the leaf packs. It will save you a headache.

[AZJeff]

38 minutes ago, 89 MJ said:

Just pull and disassemble the leaf packs. It will save you a headache.

Yeah, but I just finished putting new bushings on, and new U-bolts.  I just wanted to be lazy and not go through the hassle of taking then off again.

 

Off to find some spring pads on line....

 

[Pete M]

I see no reason why you can't shove a wedge in there to gain a little clearance to get at the #2 leaf's pad. 

[ghetdjc320]

2 hours ago, Pete M said:

I see no reason why you can't shove a wedge in there to gain a little clearance to get at the #2 leaf's pad. 

I’d hesitate to do that. He could  damage that leaf fairly easily

[Pete M]

it's spring metal and he only needs like half an inch of space.  but admittedly i'm thinking of this all happening when the suspension is fully drooped out.