Twin I-Beam Bushing Procedure

[camelman]

I spent way too much time looking for this info, so I'm hoping someone can help. Is there an online procedure for replacing the TIB bushings? The main thing I want to know is how to remove the pivot bushing bolts safely without spring force behind it.

Thanks,
Camelman

 

[aaron88]

The only safe way to do it I know of is to actually remove the spring. I suppose you could take the shock off let it drop till there is no pressure from the spring left on the front suspension.


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[camelman]

Great, that's what I was hoping to hear. I'm planning to change the radius arm bushings at the same time since it seems like they'll be easy to remove with the I-beam arm disconnected.

Is there anything else I should consider replacing while I'm in there?

Camelman

 

[camelman]

Finally found a good writeup.

http://www.nloc.net/vbforum/showthread.php/88790-I-Beam-Pivot-Bushing-Replacement

Also this one:
http://angryiron.com/Ford-Ranger-Rally-Truck/Rally-Truck-build-3.htm

 

[1qaz]

On the TIB, the front end of the radius arm is bolted to the axle which the spring seat, insulator, and retainer is then bolted to...all the same bolt, two separate nuts. I'm not sure how you could change the radius arm bushing without removing the shock and spring. But once you do that you might as well unbolt the radius arm and remove it to replace the bushings. Also, to replace the axle pivot bushing, it seems it would be easier to have the axle out so you can better access it. Use a 1 1/4" socket and press it though...no need to cut the rubber and metal as shown in the link above. Pressing in a new bushing takes a bit of effort as the outer diameter is equal (or damn near) to the top end of the axle's inner diameter then it tapers in from there on the axle. Here's a Ford schematic of the design with all its parts and pieces.

I just replaced the entire front suspension of my 1987 XLT 2WD with stock parts...happy to clarify anything above and share some of my lessons learned.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

When I did my radius arms I just cut off the rivets that hold the rear crossmember brackets on the truck frame. Didn't touch the pivot bolts. The only reason I took the springs and shocks off was to replace them.

 

[1qaz]

That's right! You could get at the radius arm bushing set from the cross member by removing the rivets the bracket is attached with. Then just bolt the bracket back on afterwards. I wonder if Ford ever considered that design before going with the rivet solution.