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1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks Discuss the Fat Fendered and Classic Ford Trucks

Spring Bushings

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Old Dec 27, 2008 | 10:27 AM
  #1  
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Spring Bushings

Got my front and rear running gear off the frame and got a used set of replacement springs from the bone yard. Now how do you get those dang bushings out
I know you can get a tool from one of the parts places but do you hammer them out or find someone with a press?
 
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Old Dec 27, 2008 | 10:33 AM
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You're replacing them right? So, just hammer them out with a big punch.

You should be able to drive the new ones in with a few taps of the hammer. Its a good idea to test fit the new pins after you have installed the bushings, sometimes they need a bit of "adjusting" with a file to get the pins to fit.

Good luck
Bobby
 
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Old Dec 27, 2008 | 10:37 AM
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I drove mine out with a 14mm impact socket. I don't like hammering on the chrome ones. I just layed the springs over a couple of 2x4s on my workbench to give me the space and beat the crap out of them.
Mike
 
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Old Dec 27, 2008 | 10:38 AM
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Its real easy if you have access to a air hammer.
 
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Old Dec 27, 2008 | 11:09 AM
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If you find a tool that can act as a driver (such as the punch or socket listed above, try using your bench vise as a quasi-press to press them out. You can also use it to press them in. A large C-Clamp will also work for that after you have them started a little. But, be sure to use a hardwood board on the bushing edges when pressing them in so you don't mar them.

Have fun
Julie
 
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 09:32 PM
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Thanks for the tips, I tried the c-clamp and socket. I got the first one out without too much effort. I broke an eight inch c-clamp in half trying to get the 2nd one out. I'm starting to understand the meaning of "Built Ford Tuff". Gotta find a stronger c-clamp.
Tried to pound them out with a punch...ended up smacking my thumb.
 
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Old Dec 29, 2008 | 10:11 AM
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kind of a redneck solution, but when I have to use the bigger hammer I grap a chunk of scrap wood from my pile, drill a hole in it just big enough for the punch and then just hold onto the wood. Doesn't always work out, but it's been a long time since I've hit my hand.
Mike
 
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Old Dec 29, 2008 | 02:07 PM
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Sometimes gently sawing through the bushing with a hacksaw just allows that extra movement needed to drive em out. Be careful not to cut into the spring tho!!

I did this with one of mine and it made a world of difference
 
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Old Dec 29, 2008 | 02:17 PM
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You can also free them up a little by spreading the eye open a little with a chisel.
 
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Old Dec 29, 2008 | 03:39 PM
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I sprayed mine with a little PB Blaster and started with the 14 mm socket and 2lb sledge hammer. After two smashed fingers, I went to a buddies shop and used the the press. The press is MUCH easier and safer.
 
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Old Jan 1, 2009 | 07:23 AM
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From: webster wi
one socket the same size one bigger put a long bolt through and tighten it i used my impact
 
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Old Jan 1, 2009 | 06:48 PM
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Got 'em out. Thanks for all the replies. I used a 1/2 ton arbor press from HF ($30) and they popped right out. I even got the ones out of my shackles so I can reuse them too.
 
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Old Jan 1, 2009 | 08:17 PM
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A quick note on PB blaster. It's great stuff, but it's just pressurized DOT 3 brake fluid. buy the brake fluid and an old school oil can and you'll get the exact same results at about a 1/4th of the price.
Mike
 
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