Rear Leaf Spring Creaking/chattering Fix Ideas

[davo32683]

I took a look under my truck to find out I have a hole on the front and back of my bottom leaf with no pad in it any longer. Therefore, I'm fairly certain that's what most of my rattling is in the rear.

 

Has anyone tried the Skyjacker pads?

http://www.4wheelparts.com/PPT3845T4498.aspx

 

It seems they may fit. GMpartsdirect is about $50 per pad, so the $5ish for the Skyjackers may be worth a shot.

 

Also found some poly ones at http://performancesuspension.com/ and they said they have applications for all Ford and GM

I'm going to call them tomorrow. I see they're particularly referring to older models, but it's worth a shot!

 

I'm just trying to find an alternative to the GM ones.

[MS3DALE]

Theres a bulletin on this............

 

 

Document ID# 1999324

2004 Chevrolet Chevy K Silverado - 4WD

 

 

Subject: Rear Leaf Spring Slap or Clunk Noise (Replace Spring Inserts) #03-03-09-002B - (07/23/2007)

 

Models: 1999-2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500 Series Pickups

 

2000-2008 Chevrolet Suburban 2500 Series

 

2002-2008 Chevrolet Avalanche 2500 Series

 

2003-2008 Chevrolet Express 2500/3500 Vans with 8500 GVWR (RPO C5F), 8600 GVWR (RPO C6P) or 9600 GVWR (RPO C6Y)

 

1999-2008 GMC Sierra 1500/2500 Series Pickups

 

2000-2008 GMC Yukon XL 2500 Series

 

2003-2008 GMC Savana 2500/3500 Vans with 8500 GVWR (RPO C5F), 8600 GVWR (RPO C6P) or 9600 GVWR (RPO C6Y)

 

 

This bulletin is being revised to add model years and update the Parts Information. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 03-03-09-002A (Section 03 -- Suspension).

 

 

Condition

Some customers may comment on a rear leaf spring slap or clunk noise. This noise is most apparent when the vehicle is operated over irregular road surfaces.

 

Correction

Important: DO NOT disassemble the main pack on the leaf spring or remove the bushing from the spring.

 

Verify that the rear leaf spring inserts (1) are present on the leading and trailing ends of the overload spring (second stage leaf). The insert may have broken apart from wear and fallen out. If the inserts are not present, install new ones.

 

Important: On some models, the vehicle may have to be raised to allow the springs to separate enough so the insert can be installed.

 

Parts Information

Important: Technicians should refer to the Parts Catalog when ordering the insert.

 

Part Number

Description

 

15604067

Insert, Rear Spring Leaf

 

15247030

Insert, Rear Spring Leaf

 

 

Warranty Information

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:

 

Labor Operation

 

E5168

Insulator and/or Insert, Rear Leaf Spring - One or All - Replace

Use Published Labor Operation Time

 

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION

 

 

© Copyright General Motors Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

 

Document ID# 1999324

2004 Chevrolet Chevy K Silverado - 4WD

[Norseman]

I had this problem. I used radiator hose to fix it. Just cut about 3 inches off and sliped it over the end of the helper leaf. To keep it from sliding down the spring I drilled 2 holes in the end of it and put a zip tie through it. Works great and only cost about $15. If you are interested I can try to take some pics of one this week end so you can see what it looks like.

[davo32683]

yeah some pics would be nice. thanks

[NothinButBowTies]

I was having trouble with my rear leaf springs about 6 weeks ago. Norseman was able to pull the TSB on lubing them. I was cleaning and lubing those things once a week and still would come back creaking and moaning (my neigbor even asked what was wrong with my truck). I figured I was doing it wrong, so I took it to the dealer. My service advisor told me that the tech said, he could not have done a better job of greasing them.

At the end of the day, I just ended up replacing them with the updated clamps. Worlds better.

[hoorders]

I took a look under my truck to find out I have a hole on the front and back of my bottom leaf with no pad in it any longer. Therefore, I'm fairly certain that's what most of my rattling is in the rear.

 

Has anyone tried the Skyjacker pads?

http://www.4wheelparts.com/PPT3845T4498.aspx

 

It seems they may fit. GMpartsdirect is about $50 per pad, so the $5ish for the Skyjackers may be worth a shot.

 

Also found some poly ones at http://performancesuspension.com/ and they said they have applications for all Ford and GM

I'm going to call them tomorrow. I see they're particularly referring to older models, but it's worth a shot!

 

I'm just trying to find an alternative to the GM ones.

Just go to a hardware store and buy some 2.5" to 1.5' rubber pipe reducers............they slip right on to you leaf spring and work great.......I have had them on for 2+ years now and they still look new........I know a few people on the board here have done the same.......I will try and get some pic and post them tomorrow for you........

[Norseman]

I took a look under my truck to find out I have a hole on the front and back of my bottom leaf with no pad in it any longer. Therefore, I'm fairly certain that's what most of my rattling is in the rear.

 

Has anyone tried the Skyjacker pads?

http://www.4wheelparts.com/PPT3845T4498.aspx

 

It seems they may fit. GMpartsdirect is about $50 per pad, so the $5ish for the Skyjackers may be worth a shot.

 

Also found some poly ones at http://performancesuspension.com/ and they said they have applications for all Ford and GM

I'm going to call them tomorrow. I see they're particularly referring to older models, but it's worth a shot!

 

I'm just trying to find an alternative to the GM ones.

Just go to a hardware store and buy some 2.5" to 1.5' rubber pipe reducers............they slip right on to you leaf spring and work great.......I have had them on for 2+ years now and they still look new........I know a few people on the board here have done the same.......I will try and get some pic and post them tomorrow for you........

 

 

Rubber pipe reducers, now that's an interesting fix. If my fix wears out I'll give that a try.

[davo32683]

I saw some energy suspension bump stops too that look like they'll fit in the holes on my bottom leaf. They're graphite impregnated and all too, but I think the dealer inserts are cheaper, but they'll likely fall back out.