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Technical Unsprung?

Discussion in 'Traditional Hot Rods' started by '50_SEDAted, Jul 2, 2025.

  1. '50_SEDAted
    Joined: May 4, 2019
    Posts: 75

    '50_SEDAted
    Member

    I need to replace the shackle bushings on my ride. The axle is hanging free — no shocks, no driveshaft, brake line tee disconnected (see pic below). Is this what it should look like with the spring “relieved”?
    I’ve never dealt with transverse springs before.
    Thanks!
    IMG_1585.jpeg
     
  2. alanp561
    Joined: Oct 1, 2017
    Posts: 5,310

    alanp561
    ALLIANCE MEMBER

    With no weight on the springs, they look alright. With weight, the shackles should ride at a 45-degree angle. What is your plan for disassembling the shackles? There are a lot of threads on here about taking springs apart and putting them back together. Check this one out: https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/posts/15427945/
     
    '50_SEDAted, Robdski and Just Gary like this.
  3. '50_SEDAted
    Joined: May 4, 2019
    Posts: 75

    '50_SEDAted
    Member

    Thanks! That’s exactly the information I needed!
     
  4. alchemy
    Joined: Sep 27, 2002
    Posts: 22,248

    alchemy
    Member

    Lots of guys will disassemble the spring leaves first to make the arch less. Two giant C clamps, and then loosen the center bolt slowly as you loosen the clamps.
     
  5. panhead_pete
    Joined: Feb 22, 2006
    Posts: 3,678

    panhead_pete
    ALLIANCE MEMBER

    Yes, Matt at Irontrap amongst others has a video or two showing how to do it with clamps.
     
    '50_SEDAted likes this.
  6. '50_SEDAted
    Joined: May 4, 2019
    Posts: 75

    '50_SEDAted
    Member

    I’ll check that out. I have a very healthy respect for springs since I crushed my left hand in a strut press when I was 19. Back when auto parts stores turned drums and rotors, pressed on axle bearings, etc. using ignorant kids and poorly maintained equipment. My initiation was being tossed a charged condenser while I was washing my hands. Heads up!! Ah, those were the days…
     
    302GMC likes this.

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