How to remove helper leaf from the back?

[team39763]

A friend asked me to remove the helper leaf from the rear.  I'm not too clear on the correct process.  He says to just lift the axle, and I should be fine.  I was thinking - just support the frame on jackstands then have the jack under the axle while I unbolt it...right?  Let me know if ya'll know of a better way.  Thanks.

[Unofficial]

When I did it I just lifted the frame on the side and jacked it until the tire was almost off the ground. Then I took it off and let it back down.

[HAULIN IT]

Team, You can do it either way. As was mentioned, lift the frame or as you said, all the same in the end. Take the nuts off of the U-bolts & center bolt (a little heat will help). Jack up the frame high enough to let the center bolt out (or lower the axle)or roll the axle enough to let it past. You can reuse the bolts (you will need to cut a little off of the center bolt once it is reinstalled so the top plate goes back on) just clean the treads good so the nuts go down on farther without getting jambed.  Lorne 

[team39763]

Cool.  Thanks for the help guys.  We took a long time on the driver's side due to everything being rusted together.  But we eventually got it.  I'm betting we can get the passenger side done in 30minutes or less.  Thanks ya'll.

[Blazin]

Both the spring shops around here say reusing center and u bolts is a huge no no! When ever you tighten a bolt it stretches, u bolts even more so. Plus the cost of them is well worth the time saved by cutting them. Both center bolts and all four u bolts, with nuts, & washers shouldn't break a $40 bill.

[team39763]

Whoa...I didn't know about the u-bolts and stuff.  I only charged him $20 to do it.  It's a drag only truck, so it'll probably see some abuse.  I'm gonna call the guy and see what he wants to do.