In regard to the question about whether the covers can be salvaged when removed, I have not yet actually tried it, but it might be possible. If the original covers are very rusty, I imagine any attempt at saving them would be futile, as they would likely just break apart. However, it the metal is in pretty good shape, you might be able to gently pry them apart at the the longitudinal seams on the bottoms (the seams that run the length of the spring). I know when I installed my new NOS covers a while back, I essentially had to crimp these seams to mount the covers, so it is possible they might come apart the same way. Not sure? Any other thoughts on this from others??