Shackle removal

[nctom]

Hi,

I'm hoping to replace the shackle bushing on my 7 this weekend. I tried to remove the bolt as a test but had a problem.

The nut comes off just fine, but the bolt wont come out even with significant encouragement. The head looks like it might be tapered and pressed into the left side of the shackle assembly.

Should I be able to remove the bolt or does it stay with that side of the shackle when it is disassembled? I attached a picture if that helps.

Thanks!

 

[CJKrawler]

The bolt doesn't have to come out to get the shackle off of the Jeep. Once you take the top and bottom nut off, the plate will come off that holds that side on, then the bolt, bushing, and other plate will come out. Then, some heat will probably be needed to remove the bushing from the spring. Someone else may have a trick to getting it out easier.

 

[Old Dog]

As CJK said just take one side off and use a BFH to knock the other half out. The best way I have found to get the bushings out is to cut the flange off with a hacksaw and work a small dia. philips screwdriver or ice pick between the bushing and the steel, than spray some penitrating oil in around the screwdriver, do this in a half dozen places and pry on the bushing as you go around. once you have it loose you can work it out.
Hope this makes sence to ya.
PS. you should probaly plan on some new schackes at the same time, as you will probaly junk the old ones.

 

[Sasquach]

I know you are holding the Jeep up with your jack (I hope) by the frame or bumper but you want to find the right spot(up/down) so there is no tension on the shackle and it should come right out. Pardon me if I stated the obvious.

 

[nctom]

Thanks for the help, guys. I did the bushings on all four springs this afternoon. I was hoping to improve steering wander and slop in the steering wheel. I'm amazed how much this simple fix helped. I might get this thing over 50 mph now!

What is the bushing at the back of the leaf spring called - it has a bigger bolt through the spring eye and a frame mount. I'd like to order bushings for those guys too, not sure what they are called.

Thanks!

 

[CJKrawler]

That is your leaf spring bushing.