1953 Chevy Truck Frontend Suspension Rebuild - Straight-Axle Straighten-Up

With the leaf springs still attached to the framerails (and the truck securely supported), the axle can be removed. Take note whether or not wedge-shaped caster shims are being used between the axle and spring, as you'll want to reinstall them later.

Though LMC does offer replacement springs, in order to retain the truck's lowered ride height, we were able to locate an appropriate used spring. However, LMC was the source for all the associated parts, such as shackles, bushings, pins, and all the hardware.

After the old springs had been removed, we noticed the rear hangers were very loose. To alleviate this, we removed the factory rivets and replaced with grade 8 hardware.

Next we replaced the frame bushings and...

...installed the new pins complete with shiny new grease fittings.

Then we did the same on the leaf springs...

...before hanging them back under the framerails.

The springs will probably turn out to be the easiest portion of the job by far-just start by installing the new rear pins...

...and then finish up the front by attaching the shackles to the spring eyes, and then finally onto the frame. That's it.

Now back to the spindles. The ones that came off the axle had definitely seen better days, and there was no question we needed a new set. Notice the damaged caused by an exploding bearing!

Fortunately, Bowtie Bits ended up having a good set in stock. Having ordered them while the springs were being installed, we hardly lost any time at all waiting for them to arrive.

As mentioned earlier, always work from the inside with the Oil-Lite bushings. A press is not required for installation; they should go right in, and usually without the aid of tools. Remember to line up the oiling holes in the bushings with the grease fitting holes on the spindles