u-bolt torque specs?

[yzfrider2]

does anyone know the torque specs for the rear spring u-bolts? they are 5/8 in a hotchkis kit. 71 Camaro

[yzfrider2]

i found in another thread 35-45 ft lbs. when i get them that tight the lower rubber pad is so smashed and distorted it looks like silicone oozing out. is this normal? do you guys even use that lower cushion between the axle housing and shock mounting plate?? HELP!
thks
71 camaro, installing hotchkis

[eville]

I used a lower pad on mine, but not an upper. I torqued to 65 for the 5/8 u-bolt. The pad is smashed to $#!^