Can't get the shackle bolts off

[biggs85]

I tried to get the bolts out today because I want to install some new bushings from Hank but I got the nut off the the lower bolt of the bracket but I could get the bolt out. I just barely got it to twist a little bit. It seems like the old bushings is binding on it and I can't get it out even with a hammer. At first I had only that side jacked up so I thought maybe if I jacked both sides up there would be no stress on it. So both tires are barely touching the ground and I still can't get it out. I'm thinking that I just have to keep banging it with the hammer but I don't want to break anything so any advice would be appreciated. Also if I do get them off, how do you remove the old bushings to install the new ones? Is it just a matter of taking the old one out and putting the new one in or is there some special way of doing it?
Thanks

 

[mrboyle]

The bolt is most likely rusted to the metal bushing insert. Lots of penatrating oil and force are your only options. Once you get the bolts out you will need a special press to remove the old bushing. If you are putting urathane bushings in, you won't need the press to install them, if you are using stock rubber type, you will.

 

[TunnelFear]

i had a similar experience when i put my warriors on...lots of hammering and a broken thumb later..the damn bolt was out

 

[Alec]

It took Kris and I 4 hours to replace the leafs on my truck. 1.5 hours for installation and 2.5 hours for one friggin stuck bolt!

 

[biggs85]

Hey mrBoyle, what kind of special press do you need to take off the old bushings? Where can you get it and how much is it? Thanks

 

[Mike]

try jacking up the axle with the truck allreadyon stands... you ewill need to play with it to get it to the right angle so it comes out..



Mike