BBMopar's 73 Dart Swinger

The rear end is all together with brand new gaskets. Still haven't got my axles back though. Front drums and backing plates are off, and the spindles are unbolted but still connected to the ball joint. I got a pickle fork and wedged it in between them as far as it could go but they won't budge, I'll have to figure that one out. Also found out that I need bigger u bolts for an 8 3/4. Should've been common sense but oh well lol. Quick question for you guys, the metal plate that connects to the u bolts for the springs (can't remember the name) came off of a 7 1/4 just like the u bolts. Will I need bigger plates along with the bigger u bolts? Probably a no brainer but I'm not sure lol. Thanks