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Leaf Spring Bushings?

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Bret

Bret

Yoda
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OK I admit I am somewhat mystified.
confused.gif


I just received my new rear leaf springs and my Energy (Polyurethane) bushings and everything looks fine except for one thing. The new springs come with the front bushings already installed. My question is how do I get them out? Do I need to take them to a shop and have them pulled or what?

Thanks,
Bret
 
I found this technique listed on a First Generation Firebird web pages’ FAQ’s. What do you guys think? If this turns into a big can of worms I’m thinking of leaving the front bushings along and only replace the rear shackle & Leaf spring pads.

Thanks,
Bret

Quote:
Q: Leaf Spring Bushing Removal
I am replacing the leaf spring bushings on my 68. I was wondering if anyone knew an easy way to remove the old front leaf spring press in bushings. I would rather not take the springs anywhere to have the bushings removed. thanks

A: The rubber bonds it self to the metal, so that its impossible to press or beat them out. Heating them to the point of burning is smelly and dangerous.

Try this.. Use a round hacksaw blade and insert thru the bolt hole. Reassemble the hacksaw frame with the blade inside the bushing and spring eyelet. Cut from the inside of bolt hole outward until you almost hit the steel. (dont knick or cut the steel as the spring eyelet could later fracture in this spot.) Do this in 2 spots near each other so as to make a triangular shaped piece that can be removed by prying out. The entire piece thats left can be removed by grasping the outer lip with a pair of Channellocks and twisting.It also helps to remove the lip on the backside by cutting with a flat hacksaw blade. Its tough but after the first,you can have them out in a matter of minutes. Make sure to polish the inside of eyelet with wire brush and sandpaper before installing new bushings.
End Quote.
 
Bret, I purchased a small (3 ton) press from Harbor Freight for about 80 dollars. It does not take up much room and comes in handy for U-joints, front end bushings and rear springs. The job took about 5 minutes removing the bushings from the two leaf springs. This tool will pay for its self in a couple of years and save trips to the machine shop and frustration.
 
&, Paul, you'll be surprised at the different jobs that pop up for which you can use that little press! You'll wonder how you ever got along without it!
 
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