Does anyone have any advice on how to install the leaf spring bushings on an 01 tacoma? I managed to burn the old one out, but I can't fit the new one in, it's considerably oversized. The new bushing is an Energy Suspension 2041. Dimensions are 20MM ID, 39.50MM OD.

I tried using a bar clamp to press them in but I broke the bar clamp.... thinking of pulling the leaf and using my floor jack to press them in by squashing the leaf and bushing against the frame rail - I don't have a press.

Any ideas? This has been a nightmare so far and i've only done 1 bushing. But now i'm committed.

BTW, great tip I figured out after trying all other methods, to remove the bushing, put a 1/4 bit in a drill, and drill anywhere between the inner and outer sleeve. Wiggle the drill around and it will start "walking" around the outer sleeve. Make circles with it and it will twist the old bushing up and rip it out.

Spent an hour burning it with a torch and got fed up. This got it out in 2 minutes. It gouged the surface a little, but not badly at all, mostly tore up the rubber.

Mark

 

So now i'm really confused - I measured my leaf springs, and they have a 35MM ID. Everything i'm reading online suggests they should be either 30 or 40mm depending on age.

I don't think I can or should press fit a 39.5mm bushing in a 35mm hole. That is more than a 10% difference and can't be right.

Maybe someone put aftermarket leaf springs on the truck?

Mark

 

Gave up on trying to figure this out - just bought a set of Deaver leafs so I can get the truck moving again. I's a PITA getting the bushings out anyway.

 

i was going to say shave them with a razor knife and add vasoline. I like deaver though. should ride like a champ now!

 

I had a bear of a time getting the bushings out - had to fab a tool to run the impact wrench on a carriage bolt and yank 'em. Easy after that...until you get to the rear sleeves...