Assembling Rear Suspension

[mgb66]

I've mounted the rear axle onto the new springs, but I can't get the spring to flatten out enough to be able to connect the drop links to the shocks.

I've tried jacking up the spring and it gets closer but the car lifts as well, so not getting close enough. I've also put the wheels on and lowered the car to the ground, but there doesn't seem to be enough weight to flatten the springs enough.

Currently the body shell only has the rear springs/axle and front crossmember connected, plus some spare wheels in the boot - do I need to wait until I've more weight in the car?

The springs are new and the shackles are currently pointing forwards, which I know is wrong, but appears to be common with new springs - all bolts are currently loose to allow movement.

Pictures attached of the current situation, advice appreciated.

The attachment 20250728_164619.jpg is no longer available

[Ian F]

This is a frequently encountered problem fitting springs to a bare bodyshell. Two suggestions might help:

# get hold some heavy items and load up the boot with the axle on axle stands. Concrete slabs or some well nourished friends.

# buy a couple of heavy duty ratchet straps if you can devise a way of pulling the axle up towards the body. Finding somewhere on the body might be tricky

Ian F

[Ian F]

Did you get anywhere fitting those springs?

Ian G