Rear U-bolts [springs]

[robert scharp]

Is it a common practice to replace the axel u-bolts in the rear.I have had mine off three times headed for 4 times. repairing mistakes by the po.Are they safe to use. i've always used the same u-bolts when i could, and thats been a 100 times over the years.

Some here say replace them everytime.what do you think???? bob s

[Matt_]

They really should be replaced since the threads are designed to yield when properly torqued. Subsequent installations wont provide the same level of security in the connection.

 

Considering how cheap they are and the highly important role they play in the safety/functionality of the vehicle.... they really should be replaced.

 

Granted people have reused them without incident.... that's due to the design having a high safety factor. By not replacing them, you're operating a vehicle at a reduced factor of safety based on design.

[Matt_]

Fyi here's a link straight from a source that explains why:

HTTP://www.lhrods.com/donotreusse.htm

 

Figure that's a bit better than just some forum posts.

[txab]

They really should be replaced since the threads are designed to yield when properly torqued. Subsequent installations wont provide the same level of security in the connection.

 

Considering how cheap they are and the highly important role they play in the safety/functionality of the vehicle.... they really should be replaced.

 

Granted people have reused them without incident.... that's due to the design having a high safety factor. By not replacing them, you're operating a vehicle at a reduced factor of safety based on design.

+1

[Matt_]

Didn't realize that link didn't work. Here's the fixed version: http://www.lhrods.com/donotreusse.htm

[txab]

Didn't realize that link didn't work. Here's the fixed version: http://www.lhrods.com/donotreusse.htm

Too many "http"s in that first link. Maybe a MOD could help ya out and fix it