Anyone replaced A1 springs?

Got myself 4 new threaded shackels and now I'm looking (well, thinking), about replacing my rear leaf springs, (11 pack). They are origional '53 and are sagging quite a bit. Searched for "Spring Replacement" and got lots of info on what to look for, but I still have some questions. I'm thinking that I'll try to keep it as military stock as I can, so that means replacing the springs with new 11 packs. I'm not really after a lift, but I kind of like how some of the Jeeps (duke54's '62 CJ in particular), sits. Back end is propped up a little. Looks good.

What is involved in replacing everything? Should I go ahead and replace the pivot bolts while I'm at it? Something else that has me a little confused is actually how the threaded shackles work? I don't really see any rubber bushing anywhere on them, looks kind of like metal on metal. Am I missing something?

Actually replacing the springs, I'm assuming I'll need 2 jacks. Hi-lift to lift the Jeep, then my floor jack to prop up the axle. Is that how everyone did it? Never used my hi-lift before. Any advice there?

The whole thing doesn't look too technically hard, but I've said that before...

Dondo

 

I would not trust the Hi Lift to hold the Jeep up.
PLEASE use jack stands.

 

Okay. You convinced me. Although I don't know quite how to do it. I need to support the frame and the axle, correct? My floor jack will hold up the axle, but my jack stands won't reach the frame (I don't think anyway, have to check for sure). Not sure how to go about this.

Dondo

 

You need the frame supported, the tires should be off anyway.
That should allow you to use the jack under the axle.

 

See if you can find something to set the jack stands on (cinder block) or you may need to go get some taller ones. I got a set of the tallest ones northern tool sells. I think they are 12 ton stands, granted I'll never be near that weight but they extend to almost 30" and have been great.

 

I personally would not use cinderblocks. I had one crumble under the Jeep one time when I was working on it, thank god I was not under the Jeep( even though it still would not have hit me) but it did teach me not to do that ever again.

 

Double ditto on the "Cinder Blocks Of Death." Don't do it!

Use something real solid, and prop in more places than you actually need to, so if something slips you get a second chance. I use cutoffs of 8x8 wood beams, and then remove the jack.

The threaded shackles are indeed metal-on-metal, (with grease in between). They are kinda telescoped; and unscrew into an inner and outer. Not difficult if they aren't rusted solid.

U bolts, I usually cut and replace with new. Its easier. I found it difficult to get the right diameter thread at the local parts store, however.

Good luck.

Pete