help switching shackles!!

[Defcon x Zero]

im trying to replace my stock rear shackles with new warrior shackles but i cant get the bolts out because the hitch bracket is in the way so im just gonna cut the bolt, but i cant pull it far enough out... heres what it looks like now...

idk if theres too much tension on the springs as the car is jacked up and the tires are off the ground, but it wont budge enough to cut it. any help would be greatly appreciated!!!!

 

[Mounty 09]

When I replaced mine I put a jack on the front part of the spring where it bolts to the frame and then put a bottle jack in between the frame and spring. Then I used a air chissle to nock the bolt out.

 

[manaen]

one word, Undercoating!

anyway about the shackles
why don't you just remove the hitch? heck it looks like you need a new one anyway, and it would be a good time to check all the bolts and connections and then for the love of God, undercoat your baby, you live in the north east. Undercoating should be a yearly event, think of it like staining your deck if done properly it will last a few years and will save the life of your truck.

Edit: if you're going to undercoat it be sure to use a rust preventative spray first it is well worth the effort.

 

[sparkyXplorer]

Like mounty said ethier put your stock bottle jack inbetween the leaf and frame or else just wrap one arm around the leaf while laying on the ground and just pull the sob towards you while pulling the bolt out with other hand...