Cracked U Bolt Top Plate

[VerMonsterRV]

Well the subject says it all. While doing a check yesterday we found that the front driver's side U Bolt Top Plate on the leaf spring is cracked. Looks like I can get them from Germany but I have heard international shipping into Mexico is difficult. So what do you all think? Should I ignore it for now, pull it off and try and get it welded, or park the truck and figure out how to get a replacement from Germany? Part number A6753220109.

Oh, and if anyone has an idea as to why this would have cracked please jump in.


Off tomorrow morning for a swim with whale sharks (well we hope they show up for the swim). Looking forward to it.

 

[Neil]

Jon

I'm currently on a Camp site in Oaxaca . There are several Germans here that have been here for the entire Pandemic. Parcels from Europe arrive here every day. We have two roof fans from the UK arriving today.
I think getting things shipped to Mexico might be easier than you think.

Most of their parcels arrive in less than a week

Sandy and Karsten have a great friend In Germany who might be able to arrange it and package it in a way that the local fees in Mexico are reduced.

Neil

 

[Sitec]

Judging by the rust in the joint that might have been cracked for quite a while. As the axle sits under the springs, and the spring center pin locates the axle where it is, I wouldn't be concerned too much about it if it were me (yes it needs replacing ASAP, but I think youd still be ok to drive the truck). It has a built in weak spot where the casting is recessed. I'd just check that the U Bolts are still good and tight before venturing too far though.

 

[VerMonsterRV]

Still looking for a replacement but I checked out Werner's truck (1995 1124). Interestingly enough Mercedes removed the back 2 cast in slots in the newer trucks. Wonder if they had other failures like ours so designed it out. I did check the U bolt nuts and all was well.