[jjwhite368]

I am getting ready to leave in the morning for a 6 week trip 2/3 of the way across the US with my new Montana. In doing the final checks I crawled underneath to inspect my springs and lubricate as necessary. I already have 3,000 miles on the unit. Underneath I noticed a band around 3 of the 5 leaves of the springs on one side of the spring. The bands on the front axle on each side have popped open and are just there, not performing any function.

1. are they necessary?
2. if necessary, how can I repair as the bands don't seem to want to go back together?

Thanks in advance,