best way to support C1 rear end to remove springs?

[Ian G.]

Sorry if this question may seem like common sense, but I'm wondering what is the proper way to support the rear of my 59 when I get ready to remove the rear springs and shocks for restoration? I'm assuming I should support the car on the side rails just ahead of the wheel wells, but not sure. I guess if I try to support the rear crossmember, its liable to get dented or crushed... I currently have blocks under the side frame rails just behind the front wheels, and then under the axle on either side of the posi case.

thanks for your help!
ian

[Mike M.]

Re: best way to support C1 rear end to remove springs?

support the 59 just behind front wheels on the frame and just in front of rear wheels, also on frame side rails. don't forget to support the rear axle assembly when loosen the springs from their perches.mike

[Ian G.]

Re: best way to support C1 rear end to remove springs?

Thanks Mike,

Is it Ok to lower the rear axle so it touches the ground with the car like that? The blocks are about 16 inches high -- two concrete blocks on on top of the other. If I leave it like that, is it safe for the body and frame over a period of time? I've read some theads where other folks have warned of a shift in the shape of the body or the frame getting stressed.

The thing is I am going to be restoring the car very slowly since I have to research everything, and find time...

[Wayne P.]

Re: best way to support C1 rear end to remove springs?

The rear axle straps will hold it. Nothing else is needed.

[Ian G.]

Re: best way to support C1 rear end to remove springs?

What are rear axle straps?

lol. Just kidding :P Those disappeared long ago. I have NOS ones waiting to install though...

So should I put the straps on first and then pull the springs off and let the axle hang? Seems like it would weaken if I let it sit there for a long time... I want to clean, strip & repaint the axle too, so I would like to mostly disassemble the rear end...

[Wayne P.]

Re: best way to support C1 rear end to remove springs?

Hard to get the rear out with the straps on it. Just support it with jack stands or blocking until you're putting it back in. It may roll on you with the drive shaft out, unless you support the forward end where the drive shaft attaches.

[Bill M.]

Re: best way to support C1 rear end to remove springs?

Is it Ok to lower the rear axle so it touches the ground with the car like that? The blocks are about 16 inches high -- two concrete blocks on on top of the other. If I leave it like that, is it safe for the body and frame over a period of time? I've read some theads where other folks have warned of a shift in the shape of the body or the frame getting stressed.

It is not a good idea to use concrete blocks as your only support. They can fail. I would consider buying some cheap steel jackstands and use those in addition to the concrete blocks just in case.

You can leave the car supported by the frame for an extended period. The frame won't take any permanent set and the frame will support the body.

I would use a floor jack under the rear axle to support the weight so you can drop it out, but I haven't done this to my '59 yet.

[Ian G.]

Re: best way to support C1 rear end to remove springs?

The blocks aren't the typical wall building blocks, but actually solid concrete footers for foundations, so they should hold up OK...

I'm going to take your guys advice and move the rear blocks forward under the frame in front of the rear wheels and then support the axle with jack stands.

Thanks for the advice everyone!