Rear springs

[hdavy]

Just when I want to go to Charlbury I find I have a broken top leaf on my traveller RH rear spring.
I presume one can't just replace the top leaf? I could maybe fix a couple of G clamps to hold it temporarily.
How difficult would it be to replace the spring by myself? (I am familiar with 'undo'- 'remove- 'replace').
I see Moss (local to me) also has a 'pad spring kit - polyurethane' which is a bit expensive. would that be worthwhile?

[chesney]

Fitting a new spring is pretty straight forward, but can be held back by seized bolts on the front and back pins. If doing this and never disassembled before, I would use new front and back pins (so 1 front spring locator pin, 2 x shackle/eyebolt pin) and nuts, and new bushes. I wouldn't bother with the poly spring pad, I put poly ones on my saloon and they are more difficult to fit than rubber and the only advantage really is more durable, which is arguable really. I'd just stick with new rubber pads. Fit poly bushes though!

[hdavy]

Thanks quick answer Chesney. Am off to Moss!

[bmcecosse]

The top leaf is the main one - so not wise to drive with it broken. And yes - if you have another top leaf you can change it. But why did it break?? Are the bump stops in place? Are the dampers working? Drain and fill with SAE 40 oil. And yes - no need for poly pad - although current rubber pads may not be what they used to be...... Poly bushes in the ends are a good idea.....

[hdavy]

Probably broke on dratted speed cushions which infest this area. I often have to drive directly over them with one wheel because the edges shred tyres. Even with care sometimes one doesn't see them soon enough because their paint is worn off. All very good for the environment no doubt. I will check bump stops and shockers but I think they are OK.