Axle won't sit flush onto leaf spring?

[Canadian1968]

Putting the rear end back in the car. I have the spings up in place, lower the axle down and put U Bolts threw the shock perches.

Try bolting all together, the axle will sit not down on top of the leaf spring. The top of the center bolt of in the leaf spring will not sit into the axle mount.  Or should this be a tough press

[ottawamerc]

Did you change the springs? Cause the after market springs may have a different size nut holding the spring assembly together, I have seen it on my new springs from Springs and things. If they are new and you have the old ones I would swap out the nut and bolt, they align the axle to the spring.

Scott

[Canadian1968]

I had then pulled apart and re-banded he must have put in a different center bolt... I can just put one on that fits into the axle?

[John_Kunkel]

The center bolt should have a 1/2" head.

[Canadian1968]

So here is a picture of what I am talking about.

The leaf spring and mount on the axle should sit flush together should they not??   I am being stopped by the hex part , which leave about a 1/4" gap between spring and axle. ??

[ottawamerc]

Ya the hex has to go

Scott

[Canadian1968]

Hmmm so what are my options . I don't think I could pick up a piece like that just from a regular hardware store ? Am I gonna have to go back to place I had it done and try to source the original??? 

Or do I get creative with a grinder !?

[matrout76]

I have bought high strength Socket Head Cap Screws (bolt) and then just turned the head down to the correct diameter to fit into the spring saddle. 

A 3/8" SHCS has a head OD of 9/16".  you will essentially need to grind off the knurling on the heads to get the right diameter.

McMaster-Carr is a good place to order these from, lots of options for lengths.