Topic: rear spring questions
in Forum: C3 Engines, Driveline and Handling
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Does anyone know the recommended torque for the bolt that holds the 9 leafs together in the rear spring ? My repair manual does not list this torque value.
I have replaced the liners but it is my understanding that the cups should be flared/peened on the holes in the spring. Is there an easy way to flare/peen my replacement cushion cups on to the spring ?
They seem to be a thicker gauge than the originals and resist attempts to influence their shape with a hammer. Thanks a bunch....Mark
I have replaced the liners but it is my understanding that the cups should be flared/peened on the holes in the spring. Is there an easy way to flare/peen my replacement cushion cups on to the spring ?

They seem to be a thicker gauge than the originals and resist attempts to influence their shape with a hammer. Thanks a bunch....Mark
1971 350 4 speed
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COLUMBUS, MS - USA
Joined: 1/11/2004
Posts: 331
Vette(s): 1972 Coupe; 350 4-speed with GM sidepipes;
Classic White/Saddle
Hi, Mark. Torque the center bolt to 20-25 lb-ft. This is an insignificant spec because the center bolt only serves to hold the leaf assembly together through installation. The important one is the 65 lb-ft for the four bolts through the spring retainer plate.
I'm sorry I don't have an answer on the cushion cups. My new ones have been on the workbench for about a month now - too much good cruisin' weather and too little time to enjoy it.
My first thought is to spend a couple bucks at the hardware store for one large bolt and an appropriately sized flare nut to get the initial "snugging" done. Then finish it out with a ball peen hammer and a drift. Make sense?
Good luck
John
I'm sorry I don't have an answer on the cushion cups. My new ones have been on the workbench for about a month now - too much good cruisin' weather and too little time to enjoy it.

Good luck
John
Thanks again John, I took one of the cups to Home Depot but could not find any nuts that are flared and the right size. All of the standard flaring tools likewise are designed for pipe they can clamp which will not be possible in this case. Will have to keep looking and thinking I guess 

1971 350 4 speed
|URL|http://members.rogers.com/kbl/index.htm |/URL|
Update...used my vice and a tapered impact socket. Squeezed them together with the cushion washers supporting the cup. Did the trick to get the flare started and then finished it off with a hammer
. Thanks to all....Mark

1971 350 4 speed
|URL|http://members.rogers.com/kbl/index.htm |/URL|
in Forum: C3 Engines, Driveline and Handling
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