I need to fab...

[ERASER5]

some U-bolt straps. I recently put 2" blocks under my leave springs ('70 GMC). Yes, I raised it. The block kit had new U-bolts instead of square-bolts like the factory. So the bolt plate that was under the axle, is now on top of the leaf springs. The fit is horrible, but I had to get thing back together.

Since the spring is a continuous arch, I was thinking about two 1/4" plates about1-1/2" X 5" or so each across each spring pack. Four plates total. A single plate would need to be contoured or it would only touch at the edges. Any thoughts?

[N2TRUX]

You will need to make it one piece rather than two. The plate is used to locate the center pin in the leafs too.

[ERASER5]

Only the nut is on the top side. The location pin is under the spring pack locating the lift block which has a locating pin for the axle. The top plate should not need locating, but I suppose I could weld a bent strap between the two straps. That would be easier than one solid plate.

[N2TRUX]

Ok, I see now. So what was the question again?

[71blaze]

If you want to do it right just buy some new bolts that work for your application. It will cost a little more but you will be happier.

[ERASER5]

I found my answer in the junkyard. I spied a Cherokee w/o wheels so the axle was exposed. There was a nice top plate. Better yet, I got them free! The guy was either in a good mood or too busy to mess with a couple bucks worth of metal. They worked perfectly!

Good thing too. The former bottom plate/now top plates had shifted and ALL eight nuts were loose. Not sloppy loose, but not tight and not good.

[SevenOne]

Good find.