Q: How do you remove the Leaf Spring on Chevrolet Astro?
A: To remove the rear suspension on a vehicle, start by raising the rear of the vehicle and supporting it securely on jackstands. Block the front wheels to prevent rolling. Remove the bumper bracket if necessary, and then remove the Shock Absorber lower mounting bolt. Support the rear axle assembly with a floor jack positioned under the axle tube on the side being worked on. Remove the U-bolt nuts and lower plate nuts, and then remove the anchor plate. Lower the jack slightly to relieve spring pressure on the axle, making sure not to stretch the brake hose. Loosen the shackle nuts, and then remove the spring retainer nuts and carefully pry the retainer from the hanger on single-leaf spring models. On multi-leaf spring models, remove the spring-to-hanger nut and bolt. Allow the spring to hang down and detach it from the vehicle. To install the rear suspension, insert the rear of the spring into the shackle and install the bolt, washers, and nut without tightening it. Place the other end of the spring into the spring hanger and install the retainer, washers, and nuts, tightening them to the specified torque. Raise the axle to the spring, ensuring the locating lug on the spring engages with the pocket on the axle. Install the anchor plate over the top of the spring, applying rubber lubricant to the leaf spring insulator for easier installation. Position the U-bolt and lower plate and install the nuts and bolts, tightening them to the specified torque. Raise the rear axle to the specified trim height and tighten the shackle nuts to the specified torque. Install the shock absorber and, if equipped, attach the rear stabilizer bar to the anchor plate.