Replacing Rear leaf Shackles
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Replacing Rear leaf Shackles
Anyone replace the rear leaf spring shackles that connects spring to frame bracket? I'd like to do it myself but I'm thinking the bolts may be a real bear getting out of the rubber bushings. My shackles are very rusted and I'd like to replace before it lets go. Thanks for any help. Bill
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i have not done a 2002 FORD, but the last truck i did (87 chevy) i had to take a 4 inch cut off wheeel in a grinder and cut oof the bolt head and nut. Droppped the spring and punched out the shaft of the bolt. Had to have the springs off the truck.
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Success! After liberal soaking bolts and nuts with penetrating oil, I was able to loosen with air impact wrench. Bottom bolt was galled with rust to the sleeve in lower bushing. Back and forth with wrench and oil, it eventually screwed out. The upper bolt was not rusted bad and came loose easily. Since the upper bolt will not clear the frame( nut is on back side), the spring will need pushed up to near bed to remove bolt. Job is easier with tire removed. Impact wrench and floor jack will maqke job a lot easier. Worst case the bolts could be ground off and punched out I suppose. Shackle was $30 at ford dealer and new bolts and nuts were pricey at $10 each. I think I will follow up with rust treatment (extend in spray can) on frame bracket and rear of frame and rubber undercoating. Do this yourself (but be safe under truck) and spend the money you save on tools. Bill
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