Rear leaf springs Mk 2

[Gareth Rogers]

Many thanks to all of you for your excellent advice! I assume the chances of me undoing the u bolts to fit bump stops must be slim? Might as well go for new springs! Also am surprised it passed an MOT without stops[frame][/frame][frame][/frame][frame][/frame]

[bmcecosse]

The U bolts should undo easily enough - wire brush the threads and then dose with Release Oil a couple of days before you decide to have a go, Note - there should be two nuts on each thread - so make sure your (ring or socket) spanner doesn't engage on both at once. Slacken back the first nut and then the second one. You can then nip them back up (spot of grease on the threads) and go round then all making sure they are running easily - before tackling the job once the bump stops arrive. If fitting new springs - you will very likely need new parts for the front mounting - they often have to be cut off - and get polyurethane bushes for the shackles.

[Gareth Rogers]

Thanks again , have ordered parts, will do as you say!

[bmcecosse]

Have to say - that exhaust looks to be hanging low !

[philthehill]

Not only exhaust hanging low but also what appears to be a leak from the rear axle hub seal evidenced by what appears to be oil on tyre and the bottom of the brake back plate. You need to get that checked out no matter that is has just passed an MOT.
If it is the residue of tyre fitting lubricant resulting from fitting new tyres on the wheels all well and good but I would still want to satisfy myself it was only that and not axle oil.
As regards axle 'U' bolts most seem these days to come with 3/8" UNF threads and single self locking nylock nuts so if you are replacing them make sure that you have the correct nuts for the new 'U' bolts as the original nuts 3/8"BSF will not fit.

[Gareth Rogers]

Thanks again PhiltheHill and BMC advice much appreciated!

[bmcecosse]

I wasn't going to mention the oily mark on the tyre........but it does look a bit ominous. I would pull the brake drum to inspect the cylinder.....