Leaf Spring Bushings

Has anyone replaced the bushings in the rear shackle without removing the springs? If so, how did you go about it?

 

I only messed with them changing springs.

Installed all new parts after torching the old ones off.

I have never removed them without cutting them off.

 

I replaced all the bushings on mine with energy suspension. Used a harbor freight ball joint press, liberal ATF, long handle break bar and determination. Jack stands, floor jack and worked each end without fully removing the springs. There are some Youtube vids out there to give some guidance. Changed the leaf springs out previously and can say if you need to remove them it's not as bad a chore as you would imagine. SC truck so no torch needed.

 

You have to take enough weight off the rear of the vehicle so the springs have no load and aren’t arched with the weight of the axle/wheels. If you can find where the springs are at their natural arch the distance between the upper and lower eyes of the shackle shouldn’t have any bind other than the resistance of the bushing on the shackle itself. An inch or so in either direction is probably okay if you can muscle it out, might have to get crafty, ie c-clamps or puller that fits. I’ve done it, definitely possible

 

This. Jack up the truck safely on jack stands + blocks, use the (now free to use) pump jack/floor jack to relieve spring tension(bind) on the rear differential and find the "sweet spot", then remove and replace shackle.

I can definetely see some wrenches being thrown in order to line up the shackle bolts into place for the new part if the "sweet spot" isn't found. Been there, did that.