Helwig helper spring adj. issue

[Redhawk 26M]

Started doing the Helwig helper spring adjustment(s) on our new 2024 RedHawk 26M. Started on the right side, it took some time but with the help of Marvel Mystery oil I was able to crack the bottom lock nut(s) and all was good from there.
Went to the left side and found the rear shackle out of place (see attached). I noticed right away because of the shackle angle. If I were to leave as is and cranked down as much as need to make the helper spring adjustment the shackle would hit the rear sway bar bushing.
Near factory new, less than 1K miles.
Suggestions / thoughts?

Thanks...

-Jim

2024 RedHawk 26M

 

[dvspl]

I can't tell from your picture if the top of the u-bolt is seated in the cup of the helper spring. Not sure if it will help, but here are the installation instructions from Hellwig: https://www.hellwigproducts.com/wp-content/uploads/product-digital-assets/135000093.pdf

 

[Redhawk 26M]

I can't tell from your picture if the top of the u-bolt is seated in the cup of the helper spring. Not sure if it will help, but here are the installation instructions from Hellwig: https://www.hellwigproducts.com/wp-content/uploads/product-digital-assets/135000093.pdf

Thanks... The u-bolt is seated properly on top, but angled so it's not in the proper position below the main springs. Maybe I can use the hydraulic jacks to get some weight off and get it placed properly. Not sure if that's feasible.

 

[salukee]

I found one of my U-bolts in the same general position, as well as pretty loose. I also had an issue with that U-bolt, the threads were stripped/cross threaded. I completely removed the U-bolt and fixed the threads. I then installed the U-bolt in the correct position and adjusted to the correct compression. It was relatively easy once I got the nuts off the bolts. I did use my leveling system to find a sweet spot for tension on the leaf springs.

 

[Redhawk 26M]

I found one of my U-bolts in the same general position, as well as pretty loose. I also had an issue with that U-bolt, the threads were stripped/cross threaded. I completely removed the U-bolt and fixed the threads. I then installed the U-bolt in the correct position and adjusted to the correct compression. It was relatively easy once I got the nuts off the bolts. I did use my leveling system to find a sweet spot for tension on the leaf springs.

Thanks... Approx. how much tension did you have to take off the springs to find that sweet spot? Wheels off the ground? I've got all the bolts loose and the threads are good.

 

[salukee]

Have someone else start raising the unit with the levelers while you SAFELY watch the spring you are going to first. When tension appears to be relieved, make the adjustment. Do it twice if needed. Repeat for the other side.

 

[Redhawk 26M]

Have someone else start raising the unit with the levelers while you SAFELY watch the spring you are going to first. When tension appears to be relieved, make the adjustment. Do it twice if needed. Repeat for the other side.

Thank you. Worked out perfectly. I used the levelers to get the one shackle into the proper position. I had all eight lock nuts already freed up with the help of Marvel Mystery oil. This allowed for easily cranking down on the adjusting nuts even with all wheels on the ground. Got all four cranked down to ~2 inches. Waiting on the Roadmaster sway bars and exact center steering stabilizer to come in, then an alignment. Looking forward to the improvements!
Thanks again, much appreciated.

 

[Camper_bob]

Is there any reason you couldn't just loosen it, reposition, then tighten?

One of the jam nuts on mine was tightened WAAAY too tight, ended up stretching the threads between the nuts and I had to cut it off.

 

[Redhawk 26M]

Is there any reason you couldn't just loosen it, reposition, then tighten?

One of the jam nuts on mine was tightened WAAAY too tight, ended up stretching the threads between the nuts and I had to cut it off.

Because I'm new to RV's and was unsure of tensions on leaf springs w/ helper springs. Thought it best to ask before proceeding. That's why I joined this forum. For the wealth of knowledge and experience that it offers. It has already proved to be an invaluable source of information.