Question For My K20 Brothers

[GregL]

1977 K20
For the past month or so I've noticed a fairly pronounced squeak/groan up front when I go over a bump. Like turning into a driveway over the curb entry. Replaced the cab mounts last year and thought they might have loosened up a bit. Finally checked it today and all seems tight but I noticed that the rear eyelets of my front leaf springs are actually touching the frame. I really think there should be a space between them. I see the bushings are due for replacement too. The truck had replacement springs installed prior to my purchasing it and they are aftermarket.
So, if anyone with a stock K20 that still has GM springs up front could check and see if yours has any space between the spring and frame, I'd truly appreciate it.
Your thoughts?
Cheers, Greg

You must be registered for see images attach

You must be registered for see images attach

You must be registered for see images attach

 

[Frankenchevy]

They should definitely not be touching.

 

[DoubleDingo]

I think you found the offender.

 

[GregL]

I agree.
The front position is fixed. The rear can have some movement with the shackle but why is it laying on the frame? Could the spring length be wrong?

 

[DoubleDingo]

May just need new bushings. Start with that since they are visibility in need of replacement

 

[86454k30]

Its sitting on the frame because the bushing in the frame is worn out. I'd bet if you look the bolt isn't in the center of the hole its up against the top. If you buy this kit is gives you 1/2" longer shackle like the 88-91 Squarebody trucks and blazers came with.

https://www.offroaddesign.com/hd-front-shackle-kit-for-67-91-gm-trucks.html

 

[GregL]

Thank you brother! That looks like it's EXACTLY what I need. Just ordered it 2 minutes ago.
I'll let you know the results when it arrives and I install.
Thanks all!
Greg

 

[rpcraft]

Being a k20 I would go ahead and invest some cash with ORD and get you some poly bushings and some of the greaseable through bolts and do them in all the locations. Don't forget to check the the frame mounted parts on the rear.

 

[shiftpro]

They should definitely not be touching.

This is what I mentioned earlier today on your post regrading lift springs.

 

[shiftpro]

1977 K20
For the past month or so I've noticed a fairly pronounced squeak/groan up front when I go over a bump. Like turning into a driveway over the curb entry. Replaced the cab mounts last year and thought they might have loosened up a bit. Finally checked it today and all seems tight but I noticed that the rear eyelets of my front leaf springs are actually touching the frame. I really think there should be a space between them. I see the bushings are due for replacement too. The truck had replacement springs installed prior to my purchasing it and they are aftermarket.
So, if anyone with a stock K20 that still has GM springs up front could check and see if yours has any space between the spring and frame, I'd truly appreciate it.
Your thoughts?
Cheers, Greg

You must be registered for see images attach

You must be registered for see images attach

You must be registered for see images attach

These are obviously aftermarket lift springs, that have sagged a little and with the worn bushings there you go. Replace bushings AND, from ORD get the longer heavy duty shackle. You will be good to go. I would also consider the greasable shackle bolts ORD sells. Larry got it right.

 

[Rusty Nail]

Lololo!

Sweet pix yo.

 

[Memaloose]

Thanks for the photos and info, I'll check mine.

 

[gotyourgoat]

Surprising this only made a noise or a concern when turning into a driveway. Looks like the terrible ride and noises would of been constant when in motion with the metal on metal contact.

 

[Curt]

works

You must be registered for see images attach

You must be registered for see images attach

You must be registered for see images attach

 

[highdesertrange]

just a note,

if the upper bushing were worn out for a long time they actually wear out the bushing housing and make it out of round. new bushings will not last long if this has happened. you need to replace the housing, also available from ORD. highdesertranger