Anyone have any secrets to removing these little gems? Of course I saved the 8.50 when I ordered close to 930.00 in parts and shipping by not buying the MF bushing removal tool and now I have a garage full of parts and two stubborn bushings that I can't get to move...

JB

 

JB, my 1956 F-250 is identical to your F-100 in the front. I am (glacially slowly) doing a ground-up restoration and took the springs and all spring hangers off the frame to get the frame back in good condition. That means I could set up the springs and hangers on one of my workbenches to remove the bushings.

Even with that advantage, I simply couldn't get all of them out without buggering them up. That isn't a problem for the removed bushings as they went into the metal recycling bin. It was clear to me, however, that I would make a mess of my nice new bushings if I tried to use the same techniques to install them.

If I knew I wouldn't need to press in or push out any other parts I would have spent the $9.50 plus shipping (https://midfifty.com/part.php?CAT_ID=385&SEL_ID=426) and been done with it. I knew, however, that I had at least six or more other items that would require a press for removal of old parts and installation of new ones. I built my own benchtop press and it's done all the work very well.

I think you realistically have three options. First, if you don't see yourself needing a general purpose press for other work on your truck (or other vehicles), spend the $14 or so and just be done with it. Second, if you are going to need a general press for other work, pick one up at Harbor Freight or your favorite tool supplier. Third, if you are eccentric like I am, build your own press and take care of business.

Good luck and know that you are not alone in having trouble with those little buggers.

 

if you run a weld bead inside the bushing it should shrink and fall out. weld dont have to be pretty. to put the bushing in dri-ice will shrink it will push right in. you dont have much time and dont touch the ice.

 

forgot to say make sure the bushing is not worn in half. and use pliers on frozen bushing.

 

George is right. I struggled with removing the bushings, so I went to Harbor Freight and got a 12 ton press. Suckers popped right out. Amazing the uses around the shop for the press. After I bought it I realized that I could of made one myself like George did. Buy or make one you won't regret it.

 

The press would be a great idea but I'd need about 10-12 of you guys to come over so we could get the frame positioned in the press! I ordered new springs so those bushings are already installed... I need just the two in the front spring hanger riveted to the frame.

Yesterday I had an impact socket that matched the diameter of the bushing but still fit inside the frame and was trying to beat it out but the only thing I accomplished was boogering up the end of the bushing...

Bravo

 

Looks like you have lots of time, could you cut the bushings lengthwise with a hack saw blade or hack saw blade holder?

 

I did ponder that idea... working on a list of honeydos today but I might try a hacksaw blade... Thanks

Bravo

 

Cutting it may be the best way. Remember that those are cast pieces and do NOT like any type of sharp edge that causes the stress to increase. They are not nearly as tolerant of those sharp corners as wrought steel products. Make sure you go REAL slow as you complete the cut so you don't leave a nice sharp cut mark in the casting.