Ive got a 1998 dodge dakota 4x4 v6 that the rear driver side leaf spring broke off of its shackle, so i need to buy a new one. is the leaf spring set easy to install? or should i pay someone to do it for me. ive done springs before on it,and am pretty fluent in automotive repairs and have a 30gal air compressor with air tools. Im just wondering if having to deal with rust,stuck bolts and other little pains along the way is going to be a bigger pain than it is worth. Also should i install a new pack on the other side as well as long as im doing it?

 

The hoop on the leaf pack that connects to the shackle? or the shackle went?

If it's just the shackle, get some matching grade 8 bolts and replace them aswell as the shackle.

If the hoop broke, it's not too bad but it kind of sucks on the ground.

-Raise the vehicle by the frame.
-Remove the tire.
-Remove the U-bolts.
-Remove the nut and bolt from the spring front eye.
-Remove the nut and bolt that attaches the spring shackle to the shackle bracket.

 

Yes the spring broke at the hoop, the spring hoop is still stuck in the mount. Should i replace the otherside while im at it,or will the new leaf spring still sit at about the same height as the old passenger side.

 

Also wheres a good place to buy a replacement leaf spring pack? will it come with all new bolts or will i have to buy new ubolts and nut and bolt for the front and back spring eye?

 

Or bushings?

 

I bought springs from this company http://www.generalspringkc.com/index.php and they include bushings. I also recommend you replacing both sides of your springs and going to the dealer to get your replacement bolts.

 

That happened to my truck, as well.
I'd recommend getting a couple buddies to help you remove the bed off the frame. That way you have a lot more room to work, you can check other components if need be, and you can see everything without an obstructed view. The should be 6 bolts holding it onto the frame, just take those out, unhook the rear lights, and disconnect the gas filler-neck.
As for the replacement, it can be easy if the bolts aren't rusted. Even if they're not, spray some penetrating oil on them in advance.
It would be ideal to replace both at the same time because you won't have a new spring and a fatigued spring, causing the bed to be uneven.
Buy some new u-bolts and nuts, but you might be able to use the bolts holding in the spring.
Buy from JCwhitney.com, that's where I bought mine. They did come with the bushings already inside the leaf springs, however as for the u-bolts and other hardware you should be able to buy at a local autoparts store. Make sure you get grade 8 bolts

Best of luck to ya