The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Bushing removing and replacing tool

I am tearing my truck down for powder coating. When I removed the rear end, as expected, the rear frame bushing that the rear springs attach to (shackle end of the spring) are out of round and in pretty tough shape. The manual says to use a Bushing removal and replacing tool (J-553 GM tool).

Will this tool work on a bushing that is worn through and out of round?

What is the best way get the old bushing out?

Piece of pipe or a socket and a BFH. A big C-clamp could be used as a press, but the bushing will most likely not budge. If it's tight (probably will be), take a hacksaw blade and cut through the bushing in a spot to allow it to collapse. Then it will pound right out.

Oh John, I almost forgot. You will have to make sure the holes are clean of any powder coat before you press the new bushings in. Built up powder coat or paint will stop the new bushing right in it's tracks.

Thanks Barry! Much appreciated!

I will have them mask the holes when they Powder coat.

12 days and counting. I need to get to work if I am going to get everything stripped by the 30th!

A 20 ton press works much better than a BFH. Saves a lot of time too, and won't mess up the new bushings.

I'm not following, is the 20-ton press portable so you can hold it up to the frame? The bushing brackets are riveted to the frame with 3 big rivets.

You can buy a universal bushing driver set at the discount tool shop very reasonably.

An update on this...3 of the 4 popped right out with a medium sized BFH. The 4th had to be difficult and needed to be collapsed. 10 minutes for 3...2 hours for 1. Typical.

I tried buying the bushing install/removal kit..I drove 20 minutes to the store...they did not have one in stock..but I could order one off the internet and have it delivered to my house...

Thanks again for info everyone.

A BFH will do the trick++ a little heat