Originally Posted by Dave9
Meh, nothing wrong with beating it back into position. There is no benefit to loosening the u-bolts and shocks, but you might want a squirt of oil over and under that leaf to help ease the process. Be pushing with one hand while using the other to hit it closer to center, 1/3rd to 1/2 way out, not all the way out on the end which the spring will just absorb more.
I would not touch the U-bolts unless necessary because you just might find they don't come loose then you need to replace them, money wasted if you can move it while leaving them alone, unless they're already at the next stage of rust where they're about to fall off and so should be replaced anyway.
I agree with this. Also, the oil could help - big time.
How about jacking the vehicle UP before realigning the Springs ?
That may take some weight off them to make the job easier.
And then add NEW Spring Brackets.