Technical Removing shackle bushing

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?

 

Sorry, forgot pic showing bushing.

 

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!

 

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.

 

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.

 

Bushing looks worn enough that it could be chiselled on the thin side, too. Just another way to destroy the bad without damaging the good.

 

Thanks all, some great ideas

 

I'd probably just drive it out and cut it with a zip disk as it hits the housing

 

reciprocating saw with short hacksaw blade
3 mins

 

Bushing out, Yay!

I bought some carbide burrs and used a tapered one to grind out a channel in the bushing. That gave the bushing enough flex to move. I was then able to drive the bushing out the 'short' end and cut pieces off until it was all out (three pieces).

 

I used a hacksaw blade.
Split bushing and pushed it out.

 

Hacksaw blade ,saw a slot to relieve pressure , air chisel , get out of the way , flyin worn out bushing is near .

 

Post #10 it's out, people!