Leaf Springs & Suspension Authority Since 1965!

Dec 6th 2020

How to Buy the Right Replacement U Bolts for Your Vehicle

How to Buy the Right Replacement U Bolts for Your Vehicle

The best way to indicate what kind of U-bolt replacement you need is by simply checking to see what your existing U-bolts look like, and then get the exact same ones!

This might be easier said than done if you have a newer vehicle. All you have to do here, is just take it to the dealership, but what about the work vehicles and especially, the high industrial vehicles that tow and haul massive amounts of weight? Chances are, you might not be able to find that U-bolt at your local automotive store. You’ll have to have to hunt down the manufacturer to find the type of U-bolt you need.

With General Spring, you won’t need to go through the trouble of searching for the right U-bolt.

General Spring has been the automotive leaf spring and suspension authority since 1965. Throughout this time, we have been able to test what works and what doesn’t—this includes U-bolts! We know that there is no substitute for your existing U-bolt. Whatever type of U-bolt was originally installed on your car, truck, van, SUV, or recreational vehicle, that is the kind you need to stick with, less your leaf springs loosen, causing them to come undone at the worst time possible.

Kinds of U-Bolts Available

Each U-bolt is identified by the curvature of the upper edges. To make it easy, they are identified by the way the edges are curved. Here, there are three types of U-bolts available:

1. Round U-Bolt

2. Square U-Bolt

3. Semi-Round U-Bolt

Another important feature of a U-bolt is measuring the diameter of the rod. General Spring carries the following rods in stock that will fit these sockets:

  • 7/16 rod fitting a 11/16 socket
  • 1/2 rod fitting a 3/4 socket
  • 9/16 rod fitting 13/16, 7/8, or 21mm sockets
  • 5/8 Rod fitting a 15/16 socket
  • 3/4 Rod fitting 1-1/16 or 1-1/8 sockets
  • 7/8 Rod fitting a 1-5/16
  • 1. Round U-Bolt
  • 2. Square U-Bolt
  • 3. Semi-Round U-Bolt

Determining the Right Fit

When it comes to getting the right fit for your socket, you definitely want to make sure that you are getting the right measurement. The best way to do this is to take your existing U-bolt, measure it, or if possible, take the old U-bolt to the mechanics so that they can have a better understanding of exactly what kind of U-bolt you need.

It is highly recommended not to cut corners when it comes to U-bolt replacements. You might not easily make the mistake of getting a U-bolt replacement with a diameter that’s too big, but it is possible to get one where the diameter is too small. Getting a U-bolt that’s too small will put too much pressure on the rod, causing it to snap. This mishap could loosen the entire suspension system.

General Spring: Your Choice for U-Bolt Replacements

If you are in need of U-bolt replacements, contact the experts at General Spring in New Century, KS. You don’t have to take a day or two out of your schedule to drive and pick up your suspension parts either. General Spring ships all of our parts anywhere in the United States. You can order by phone at 888-829-0619 or online today!