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Technical Removing shackle bushing

Discussion in 'Traditional Hot Rods' started by paulsherman, Jan 31, 2025.

  1. paulsherman
    Joined: Oct 3, 2024
    Posts: 23

    paulsherman

    Newest challenge - I'm trying to figure out how to remove a shackle bushing from the rear end of the 30 Model A.

    The rear end itself is a 9 inch out of a 76 Bronco. To lower the rear end the prior owner moved the spring and cross member back then put the rear end in front of the spring. This means the mounting bracket is now behind the rear end, leaving 1 inch between the bracket and rear end. The passenger side bushing was loose and slid out. The driver's side, however...

    I had made a puller for the spring bushings from threaded rod, sockets and nuts that worked fine.
    With only an inch between the bracket and axle housing, I tried it with a lug nut and just bent the rod.

    I've read about cutting the bushing with a hacksaw. With an inch of throw (at best), it'll probably take hours to cut.

    I assume the bushing is hardened, so am not sure if I can drill it out.

    Any ideas?
     

    Attached Files:

  2. paulsherman
    Joined: Oct 3, 2024
    Posts: 23

    paulsherman

    Sorry, forgot pic showing bushing.
     

    Attached Files:

  3. rusty valley
    Joined: Oct 25, 2014
    Posts: 3,997

    rusty valley
    Member

    I cut them out with a torch. The bushing is thin, pre heats faster than the metal around it so it only cuts the bushing. One red spot, pull the trigger and don't stop till you get to the end. move fast!
     
  4. Martinbuilt
    Joined: Mar 23, 2023
    Posts: 90

    Martinbuilt

    I don't think they are hardened. I cut one with a hacksaw blade with little drama.
    Looking at the photo, you might be able to sneak a punch in, on the thin side. It'll fold in a little, and loosen up.
     
  5. Zax
    Joined: May 21, 2017
    Posts: 775

    Zax
    ALLIANCE MEMBER
    1. 1952-59 Ford Social Group

    They can be drilled out. But it will take quite a while and you have to take breaks to let the bit cool down or it may warp. I had to do it once. Took about 45 minutes.

    Another method I have used successfully is finding an old socket the correct size, hammering the bushing in a little at a time, and cutting the end that protrudes off the back with a sawzall when it bottoms out. This method may not work for you though. Looks like you have less clearance than a stock axle.
     
  6. RodStRace
    Joined: Dec 7, 2007
    Posts: 6,225

    RodStRace
    Member

    Bushing looks worn enough that it could be chiselled on the thin side, too. Just another way to destroy to bad without damaging the good.
     
  7. paulsherman
    Joined: Oct 3, 2024
    Posts: 23

    paulsherman

    Thanks all, some great ideas
     
  8. I'd probably just drive it out and cut it with a zip disk as it hits the housing Screenshot_20250201_105512_Chrome.jpg
     
    '29 Gizmo likes this.
  9. nobby
    Joined: Jan 8, 2006
    Posts: 1,300

    nobby
    Member

    reciprocating saw with short hacksaw blade
    3 mins
     

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