Rear Spring Cushion Retainer Installation

[James B.]

I've recently purchased a used 9-leaf spring for my '72. However, it needs new cushion retainers.

Do the GM retainers (PN 3910701) cosmetically match the originals for my year?

Any suggestions on a method to properly peen over new leaf spring cushion retainers?

Also, did the retainers have a natural finish (as installed)?

Thanks.

[Gary B.]

Rear Spring Cushion Retainer Installation

James,

Yes and no to your question. The current service replacement retainers have the exact same geometry at the original retainers for your '72, but within the past year or so GM started to nickel (I think) plate the retainers, so they are too shiny. You can strip the nickel plate with a diluted solution of muriatic acid and then take some 0000 steel wool to them and they will look perfect. I have an article coming out in the next Restorer that describes a set of tooling that makes the swaging or peening step a snap.

Gary
Northern California Chapter

[James B.]

Re: Rear Spring Cushion Retainer Installation

Thanks for your response, Gary. Good stuff !

I'm looking forward to seeing your Restorer article.

[Jeff S.]

Re: Rear Spring Cushion Retainer Installation

James

On a midyear, the ball end of a 32 oz ball peen hammer is the correct size to form a tight flare on the cushion retainer. Ideally, a hydraulic press large enough to fit the main leaf, the retainer + the hammer works best. Alternately, you could use the hammer head as a forming die and strike it. Either way, use a suitable distance piece inside the cup (lower) of the retainer to prevent it from deforming during flaring.

[R N.]

Re: Rear Spring Cushion Retainer Installation

I did mine the same way Jeff says. A hydraulic press works best.

[Harry S.]

Re: Rear Spring Cushion Retainer Installation

Jeff and Kurt, just to verify, the retainer does not need to be smashed/locked against the spring, just enough flare to keep it in place and not fall out, correct?

Thanks

[Gary B.]

Re: Rear Spring Cushion Retainer Installation

Harry,

Correct. It doesn't take much to keep them in place.

Gary

[Harry S.]

Re: Rear Spring Cushion Retainer Installation

Gary, thanks. Just getting everything ready to start the frame off on the 63 early next year.