Rear Spring Bushings & Axle U-Bolts

[dcbullet]

I noticed that in Kieth's project log that the P-S-T bushings do not use the outer "sleeve" but that if you use the stock replacements you would re-use those. Does that mean that the stock replacement bushings can be installed with normal hand tools (i.e. no press needed).

I don't have an air chisel so if I went the P-S-T route I would need to get those sleeves pressed out. I'm trying to minimize machine shop work.

Second question. I'm planning to get new U-Bolts for my rear-axle. I've never purchased them before. Are they just a standard item that I can tell the vendor "Ford 9-Inch" and I need them X inches long? Any recommended vendor?

[fordman]

i thought you could just get the u bolts at the parts store. in any size you wanted.

[FORDification]

Stock replacement bushings come with the inner and outer sleeve, along with the rubber portion, and DO need to be pressed in. You can probably get by running those in with a long bolt and some large flat washers.

To install the PST bushings, however, you'd just drill out the rubber portion, leaving the stock outer sleeve intact, and then insert the polygraphite bushings into the sleeve.

[DuckRyder]

Eaton Detroit spring will bend you custom U bolts for a reasonable price.

You need to measure the diameter of the tube, let them know the thread diameter and how tall.

They will help you but ultimately you are responsible if they don't fit.

[4x4_Welder]

Most driveshaft shops custom bend u-bolts. Bring them one of your old ones, or one out of a junkyard, and they will bend it up in about 20 minutes.

[dcbullet]

Most driveshaft shops custom bend u-bolts. Bring them one of your old ones, or one out of a junkyard, and they will bend it up in about 20 minutes.

I like that idea.

[dcbullet]

To install the PST bushings, however, you'd just drill out the rubber portion, leaving the stock outer sleeve intact, and then insert the polygraphite bushings into the sleeve.

You know in your log Keith you show that you remove the outer sleeve with an impact driver so that the bushing fit.

[FORDification]

OH! I'm sorry....I was thinking about the front bushings, the axle pivots. Yes, the outer shells DO need to be removed from the rear leaf springs to install the PST polygraphite bushings. Sorry about that.