Author Topic: Replacing rear leaf spring bushings on 78 sedan (Read 1937 times)

78txpony · « **on:** May 11, 2012, 10:27:59 AM »

Well yesterday, my neighbor noticed the rear of my Pinto had a 1.5" list to starboard. I knew the driveway had the same amount of list, so I never paid attention to it.
I did some checks and sure enough, he was right. I found that the lower right shackle bushing is worn through to the bolt.
After 35 years and 157k miles, they are due. Surprised it still rode well with no clunks!

Can anyone give me some advice on replacing those bushings easily? I understand the bolts will be bears, but how does the rubber parts go in and out? Looks like there are four bushings per shackle. Can those be replaced without dropping the rear and completly removing the spring?
Rockauto has some, 1" and 1 7/8". Looks like I just need the 1".
The front leaf bushings still look okay, so those can stay for now.
Thanks!

289Wagon · « **Reply #1 on:** May 11, 2012, 02:00:37 PM »

The shackle bolts are not 'bolts' as you know they are (swedged) 'spelling' into one end of the shackle with a nut on the other end. The bushings are just made of soft rubber and can be pushed in by hand. A little bit of lube will help. If you have worn thru to the metal part or to just make the job easier, there are complete shackle kits available at NAPA & Rock Auto & I would think more places also.
Be sure to have stands under the axle on the other side and the body side you are working on. Just go slow and be CAREFUL ! No big deal.

78txpony · « **Reply #2 on:** May 11, 2012, 03:15:11 PM »

Thanks, Ric - I later realized that the "bolts" are part of the shackle. Looks like there might still be a little rubber in there, so i will take it apart and see how it looks.

Push the rubber in and out by HAND? That easy? Wow - I hope you are right. I know all about front bushings on Pintos and 72 Oldsmobiles and they are a pain in the posterior.

I will get them on order and hopefully get those done before it gets hot here in TX!!