F100 front spring bushing replacement

AllenV

AllenV

Member
Work continuers very slowly on my '55 F100.
This is the link to my introductory post.
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=273280&highlight=allenv

I would like to solicit advice on front leaf spring bushing removal and replacement BEFORE I actually pass the point of no return. I am replacing both front springs as they are broken, see attached photo. I have new Eaton springs and I picked up the pins, U-bolts, and a pair of brass bushings for the front/upper hanger ( the one riveted into the chassis) from Mid-Fifty. I also have the MidFifty bushing removal tool (2801-F).

It looks like a simple job for a big hammer. What say you? Who has done this and how would you do it the second time?

Thank You
 

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Generally, you would buy a complete bushing kit with the shackles, etc. I personally would also get new U-bolts and nuts as well. I have not done any such a repair since my Model A days, so my additional advise would be quite dated.
At any rate, don't forget the jackstands, and leave the jack under as well. You can't stress caution enough in this instance. And lastly, finesse will better a hammer every time.
 
Desirability of finesse noted. I have been considering firing up the lathe and making a press-out tool that would work with some threaded rod and a deep a large deep socket on the exit side.
 
That idea of making a tool could work, it depends how tight those bushings are. But I think standard thread stock may not be sturdy enough for the job. Also being that you live in a rust free area, the bushings may come out easier.
And this might be the time to do those king pins as well.
We have a 48 F-1 that needs all this stuff, I have everything, but don't want to tackle it in my driveway, if I can avoid it. So still trying to find a suitable place to work.
 
So..I whack it with a 5-pound sledge a few times. No sign of movement. Unless one of you folks offers significant encouragement I will leave it be for now. The wear is not so bad that the bushing must be replaced. I will have new spring pins and new bushings in the spring eyes. Under this plan I would run old chassis bushings until I tear the truck down for restoration. At that time I would install new front spring perches.
 
I used a piece of 1/2" threaded rod, 2 nuts, a washer and a big deep socket. That will work for the bushings that go in the spring itself. The 1/2" nut (3/4" hex) is too big to take the bushing out of the frame in the front. I didn't remove those. You will have to figure that out. I replaced the other 4 still in the truck. Didnt even have to take spring off axle.
-- Ok I cant load pics, anyway it works great- no beating threads do the work..
 
Hey Greg, I just read your posted saga with the '56. Great job and nice posting!

Since I am putting in new springs from Eaton Detroit Spring they already have new bushings in the spring eyes. My only concern has been that peaking bushing in the upper front in the frame itself. Still planning to leave it be for now in favor of getting her running and driving.
 
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