Rusty rear end cups/trailing arm mounts - now what ?

[Green Machine]

The rear end cups/trailing arm mounts that the big U bolts go through look pretty thin and rusty on my 71 C20. They have the helper spring plate underneath and it has been my experience that the plates drain holes plug up and let the water sit in the cups and rust the crap out of them. I know I need to get thoses plates out of there and replace the big U bolts, but what to do about the rusty cups themselves ? Clean and ignore ? Have something welded on there ? Or find a replacement housing ? Whats a good price for a good used empty C20 housing ? Thanks

[bryanw1968]

I would get them out of there and replace with some powder coated ones.
When pulling the springs out of my '68 I discoverd that not only were the spring cups rusted, but the long bolt that goes through the trailer arm was seized in the middle of the trailer arm. It took forever to get it out. Literally a day. I had to get red hot with a torch and then poured water on it several times. Finally, it made this awful sound and broke loose. Sorry to ramble but just wanted to let you know what you might be up against.

[Green Machine]

The actual coil spring cups look pretty good, but I will likely replace them and the bolts when I get this apart. Guess I should post a pic but camera is not here right now.
I am concerned about the triangle piece that is welded to the rear end housing on each side that the big U bolts go through, that sit directly on top of the trailing arms, how thin can they be and still be safe ?? Or how to fix ??

[bryanw1968]

If there is anyway to get a pic that would be great. I'd really like to see it before making that call