Leaf Shackle to Frame Bushing

[J_C]

^ What exactly do you need to know?

There is a sticky topic about this: leaf spring bushing sizing and suppliers

There's more here: Explorer Leaf Spring Bushing Notes

Basically, you can use the Energy Suspension kit 4.2124 for the 1st gen explorer, works for shackle and rear frame, except the front leaf spring bushings are the wrong size so you buy those separately, Ford rubber RB-237 or Energy Suspension polyurethane 3.2125 for the front bushings by leaving the outer shells in the spring because they are slightly too small an outer diameter otherwise.

Some people say the Energy Suspension black colored versions are potentially quieter than the red because of the carbon to make them black, serves to lubricate them some and reduce squeaking.

 

[donalds]

potentially quieter than the red because of the carbon to make them black, serves to lubricate them some and reduce squeaking.

You are correct they are quiet

I just did all 5 shocks with the black ones

 

[Pete Deering]

While attempting to swap my shackles out for the Warriors, I was halted by the upper frame-to-shackle bolt. The bolt is apparently seized into the bushing and no matter how much I turn it, the whole bushing turns. So before I take another stab at getting it out, I'd like to have some replacement bushings on hand just in case the entire bushing comes out with it. I stopped by my local Ford Part's store but they said there was no replacement for the frame bushing, only the leaf-eye bushing. Is there another source where I can get this bushing?

Thanks.

I had the same issue. The new shackle I brought from AutoZone came with 2 bolts and 2 bushings and the shsckle. I drill out the sleeve and bolt.

 

[vroomzoomboom]

if anyone is interested, the ford replacement bushing that is in the frame is F57Z 5A546 AA. or at least it was 12 years ago when i had to buy one.

 

[Pete Deering]

if anyone is interested, the ford replacement bushing that is in the frame is F57Z 5A546 AA. or at least it was 12 years ago when i had to buy one.

Wasn't it pricey? Ford $40 dollars for the shackle bolt. Thanks for the part number.

 

[vroomzoomboom]

Wasn't it pricey? Ford $40 dollars for the shackle bolt. Thanks for the part number.

cant remember. too long ago.

 

[J_C]

Wasn't it pricey? Ford $40 dollars for the shackle bolt. Thanks for the part number.

IIRC these are the bolts I got, but were a 4 pack for $22 at the time.

9/16 x 4.5 Chevy / GM & Dodge & Ford Truck Leaf Spring Bolt & lockNut & Washer | eBay

Its a grade 8 hardened steel bolt that typically fits most standard truck and van springs. 9/16-12x4-1/2 Spring Bolt. 9/16 SAE Flat Washer. You will get one (1) Grade 8 Bolt & Nut & Two (2) 9/16 Washers Zinc Plated.

www.ebay.com

The energy suspension bushing kit used to be $54 on Amazon but is now $86. Cheaper here at around $65 delivered:

Energy Suspension 4.2124G - 91-94 Ford Explorer/Bronco II 2WD/4WD Black Rear Leaf Spring Bushing Set

CSPRacing. The leader in late model GM Performance. We offer tuning, installs, and performance auto parts.

www.cspracing.com