Technical Leaf Spring Noise/Bumper pad missing?

[DavidsDucato]

2013 Ducato 130 Panel Van Conversion Motorhome...fitted with 2 leaf rear springs (1 leaf plus a helper (1+1)). At the back end of the springs there is a rubber block, maybe 1cm thick, which forms a cushion between the leaves...but...at the front end there is no pad, just a thin metal plate rivetted to the lower leaf....same both sides. QUESTION IS - is this normal or should there be a rubber pad on top of the plate. As it is when it hits a bump there is a load clang (the van isnt overloaded (3300kg when weighed a couple of weeks ago)...like most motorhomes it is "up there" hence it isnt unusual for the helper to come into play given the state of the roads. If I put a couple of thickesses of gaffa tape round the lower leaf then all is well...but off to europe soon!!!

 

[cotswoldtony]

It sounds like the spring u clamp and bolts need replacing.

 

[DavidsDucato]

The U-bolts which hold the springs to the axle? (these are OK)...or do you mean a clamp around the 2 spring leaves (in this case there isnt one).