Suspension Bushing replacement - how to?

[badmix]

I just ordered some HD shackles and greasable bushings from ORD, woohoo. Anyways, this is one of those "never did this before" projects. What would be the easiest and safest way to replace my bushings and shackles.

1) Lift truck off ground with suspension unloaded (jack the body and get wheel off ground) Springs wouldnt have any pressure on them at this point

2) Lift truck off ground under axles, this would get truck in the air but still compressing springs


3) Leave truck on ground (this would still have pressure on springs and still be compressed)

The springs on there now are 2" rough country springs front and rear.

Thanks in advance
(just want to do this safely and easily as possible.)

 

[MTBLAZER89]

You need to support the vehicle by the frame so the springs are completely unloaded. You can jack it up by the axles just get some tall jackstands under the frame rails then let the axle hang. Get a shorter set of jackstands just to rest the axle on so it doesn't fall on the floor.

Note: Don't forget to disconnect breather hoses and brake lines or at least keep and eye on them during the "take the bolts out phase"

Shocks and driveshafts will also probably need to be disconnected.

 

[roadnotca]

After doing this twice, here is what I think is the trick to removing the old bushings.
Stand the spring up on three jackstands (left, right, center). I use MAPP gas. Major stink and smoke, but it gets it done. Blow the flame down the steel sleeve. Poke at the sleave until it drops out. It also helps to have a spray bottle of water to put out the stink. Once you have the sleave removed, and you'll smell like a Fireman, hammer and chisel, or air hammer and chisel is the best way to remove the bushing outer sleave. Adding WD40 or PBlaster doesn't hurt.
New bushings and sleaves, BF Channellocks.