I have a 95 f-150 and Im replacing the leaf spring bushings. After taking out the leaf springs, I noticed that the rear spring hanger is completely rusted out. Can I drill out the Rivets, and replace them with nuts and bolts? And if anyone knows, what size bit should I use? Thanks.

 

You can remove the rivets by drilling through them with small drills and gradually going larger. It is tough to stay in the center of the rivet, but it can be done. An easier way is to grind the heads off the rivets with an angle grinder and then push them out with a hammer and punch.

The rivets are usually 7/16 inch in diameter. When the rivets are out, drill the holes to 1/2 inch and use 1/2 inch grade 8 fasteners to bolt the brackets in place.

Lou Braun

 

you could tourch the rivet outs (they go easy, but be careful with the tourch though).

 

hey the brackets rusted out on my 1994 truck also, the right side completely busted and the spring is hitting the bed of the truck, anyway i am going to cut mine off and bolt new ones on does anyone know where to buy new brackets? also would it be better to weld them on?

 

Bolts will do the job perfect unless you are hauling loads insanly heavy to the axle breaking point, check with your local parts store, and if not hit up the local pick a part.