Hic-up number 1

I'm trying to get my new Superlift 1" lift springs on my origonal '53 M38-a1. Got the right rear spring off no problem, now I'm working on getting the threaded shackle off. It looks like the pervious owner WELDED the part of the shackle that threads onto the "C" to the spring hanger!!

http://mtbiker70.blogspot.com/

3rd picture down shows what I'm talking about. The spring is off, the bottom of the "C" is unthreaded, but the top will not unthread. There is a bead of weld around the outside of the hanger. Why would someone do that!?!?!? What are my choices here? Just use the shackle that is there? That would be the easiest. Or, drop the tank, cut the shackle off and try to unscrew the shackle from the welded piece in the hanger? Replace the hanger (cringe...I don't have a torch or a welder)

Another question. My new springs have rubber/steel bushings in each end of the springs (picture 1). It a previous post, Glenn (I think), mentioned that I'll have to remove one bushing from one end of the spring so as to use the "C" shackles. I pounded on that thing for 10 minutes with a smaller socket and it hasn't moved. If I bought a set of "H" shackles, would I be able to keep the spring bushings in both ends? (I know, it all hinges on what I figure out with my stupid welded shackle.

Dondo

 

Dondo, I can't really tell from the picture, but on the earlier CJ's I believe that some of the C shackles came with LEFT handed threads on one side and right on the other. Before you get crazy with the torch you don't have, try breaking it loose in reverse.

But as another thought, you would have maybe come up against at least one other lefty C shackle if you've already got the other 3 out.

Keep us posted.

 

I'm assuming that it is. They don't make threaded shackles anyway else, do they? I just figured that the ones I bought would be exactly like the shackles on it.

http://mtbiker70.blogspot.com/

I added a close up of my problem.

Thanks for the help btw.

Dondo

 

Hmmm...this is goofy. Looked at each of my new shackles and turned the threaded part...on all but one of them (the one I was modeling the shackles on the Jeep with), they would unscrew righty tighty, lefty loosy. Decided to bang on the "C" that is stuck on the Jeep and turn it the opposite what you'd think....and, it is now turning.

Okay, so it looks like I'm back on track again. Now, how to get the bushings out of the new springs? Just bang my way though it....bigger hammer theory?

Thanks again for all the help guys. If we're ever in the same place...beers are on me.

Dondo

 

x2

keep trying to work it and unthread it

 

Antique "C" shackle is out. I love wireless laptops in the garage..

I should try to hook up a webcam..

 

also, pay attention to the springs IF you push the rubber bushing out
I don't think the center bolts are "centered" in the spring; most likely offset; which means there is a front and back when it comes to installing the springs....

 

Use a C-clamp with a big socket on the side you're pressing towards. It'll rest against the spring eye and let the bushing move. Try getting the steel insert out first using a socket that matches its diameter to press it out. The rubber/urethane bushing seems to come out easier if you can get the insert out first. Oh, you'll need three hands to hold it all in place 'til it's tightR)

 

I have one spring all the way on now. It is pretty amazing to think that one little cheesy looking "C" shackle can hold all that weight.

I'm drinking Moosehead now and taking a break before I hurt myself anymore. I have a couple of buddies coming over in about an hour to help me out on the other springs...

ahhhh....beer....

Thanks again guys. I really appriciate it.

Dondo