Installing my Hotchkis 2/4 drop, the instructions from Hotchkis for torquing the u-bolts on the axle call for 200 ft-lbs. The Chiltons I got calls for 53 ft-lbs. What did yall torque them to? From my experiences, given the size of the factory u-bolts, I don't see how they can withstand 200 ft-lbs, but I could be wrong. The stock ones were also pretty easy to loosen with about a 10" long 1/2" drive ratchet. Certainly felt closer to the 53 than 200, but who knows.

Also, did yall replace yalls u-bolts with new ones when installing the springs? Again, the instructions from hotchkis didn't say anything about it, but the Chilton's said the factory recommends replacing them any time you remove them.

 

I definately didn't torque my u bolts to 200 lb ft. I used the factory spec. I also did replace the u bolts, although the majority of people dropping their trucks ignore this point. I figure for the minimal cost, why not do what GM says to do. But there are also people who reuse their $4 crank pulley bolt when they do camshaft swaps too.

 

I too, would stick with what the factory states.

 

gotcha. thanks guys. I was just kinda at a loss about which way to follow, but was definitely leaning to what the factory calls for.

 

if anything, put a LOW strength loc-tite on it and tq to stock specs.

that's what i'm going to do with mine when i put the whole kit on (sway bars/springs/coils)