Quote:
Originally Posted by HudsonFrog
5 out of 6 spring gave up on the cargo door. Just received the 6 new springs and getting ready to replace them. Really dont know what caused this...
I was thinking of :
1) removing screws on the bottom hinges first.
2)Then removing the door with a friend
3) Repairing the hinges and replacing springs
4)Putting back the door with friend again
5) Putting back the bottom screws.
Has anyone replaced their springs and could share some tips?
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Yes, I've replaced several springs, without removing the door. I pried off the aluminum end caps first. Then I used a floor jack and a solid peice of wood to support one of the middle hinges. With some (not all) weight off the hinges, I used a drift to drive the shaft to the opposite side, until the spring needing replacement was free. Replace the spring, and drive the shaft back into place. If you need to replace the springs on opposite sides, do one side at a time. Once I figured it out, I can replace a spring, or multiples on the same side in a half hour. Dealer watnted to charge several hours labor to replace one spring. Assume they were removing the entire ramp door. You do have to be careful, and I would not drive the rod out more than 1/2 way at a time. Properly supporting the door in a suitable manner is critical. It can be done by one person, but having someone to hold the spring and plastic bushing in place while you drive the rod back makes it a lot easier.
I beleive I ordered springs from Lippert's website. I also got one from the dealer. Now I keep a spare on hand.