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Discussion Topic:
39 4 door sedan rear spring set
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flatcreeker |
03-04-2021 @ 7:11 AM
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Member
Posts: 48
Joined: Feb 2021
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From a novice: is it a big deal to change rear spring assembly?
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nelsb01 |
03-04-2021 @ 4:34 PM
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Senior
Posts: 975
Joined: Oct 2009
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Simple answer -- yes. If you have the correct tools, not to hard. But having the correct tools is the issue. You will have to remove the rear end assembly -- including torque tube (driveshaft) as one piece. Then a spring spreader will be needed to keep the spring in the position so you can get the shackles out. Years ago I rented a porta-power to do it, and ................ I would never do that again, because at the time I had no idea that the spring could have taken off and damaged something -- including me. I would suggest that you find someone with experience to either guide you or help you.
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TomO |
03-05-2021 @ 8:25 AM
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Senior
Posts: 7243
Joined: Oct 2009
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I agree with Bruce about having someone who has done this before or a commercial enterprise that has the equipment do this for you. A spring spreader is very important in the removal and installation process. This is a job that only an experienced mechanic should try. Here is a link to a home made spreader, you will have to change how the ends fit on the spring in order to use it on a 1939 Mercury. The photo shows the spreader pushing on the radius of the spring eye, the 1939 spring eye is too small to safely use it. You will have to use a wedge end that will fit between the spring eye and the leaf. Be sure to read the cautions that wmsteed expresses about material and usage. https://www.earlyfordv8.org/forum/viewmessages.cfm?Forum=18&Topic=218&keywords=spring%20spreader You can remove the spring from the car without removing the rear end. Safely support the car on tall jack stands, support the differential with a floor jack, remove the shock absorber links, spread the spring to relieve tension on the shackles, remove the shackle links, release the spring spreader tension slowly and then remove the nuts from the U-bolts holding the spring to the frame. You may have to lower the differential to get clearance to remove the spring. You will need to install new shackle bushings in the spring. You will need to press them in by exerting force on the outer sh*ll. An arbor press makes this job easier.
Tom
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