I've had this annoying rattling for the past month, removed my spare tire holder, hitch, tightened everything down. Still rattles. Finally figured out that the "collar" on the front half of the leaf springs was loose on the passenger side. I wedged a washer in between it and the spring and stopped the incessant noise.

My questions are:

1. Is that alright?
2. I doubt the washer will affect anything but is that band or collar supposed to be tight? The other side will slide back and forth if I force it but doesn't rattle.
3. Does the band or collar serve any actual purpose?

 

The bands are normally tight but can stretch over the years from all the flexing. Try sticking a big c clamp on there and squeeze it tight again.

 

Is there any place to by the bands/collar/whatever? What are they called?

 

Apparently they are called "rebound clips" (or clamps) but I still can't seem to find any place that sells them.