1. Preparation:
- Park the Camaro on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
- Place jack stands under the frame, behind the front wheels, to support the car.
- Loosen, but do not remove, the lug nuts on the rear wheels.
2. Remove the Wheels:
- Use a lug wrench to remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels.
3. Disconnect the Sway Bar:
- Locate the sway bar, which is a metal component attached to the rear axle and connected to the leaf springs.
- Disconnect the sway bar at both ends by removing the bolts or nuts holding it to the axle and the frame.
4. Disconnect the Shock Absorbers:
- Identify the shock absorbers, which are located on either side of the axle.
- Use a wrench to loosen and remove the bolts holding the top of the shock absorbers to the frame.
- Be careful not to drop the shock absorbers once disconnected.
5. Lower the Axle:
- Use a jack to support the rear axle.
- Slowly lower the axle until it's just below the leaf springs.
6. Remove the U-Bolts:
- Locate the U-bolts holding the leaf springs in place.
- Remove the nuts from the U-bolts and take them out.
7. Remove the Leaf Springs:
- Carefully slide the leaf springs out from underneath the axle.
- You may need to pry them gently using a pry bar or pry tool.
8. Remove the Bushings:
- Once the leaf springs are removed, you can access the old bushings.
- They are typically pressed into the leaf spring eyes and/or the shackle.
- Use a bushing press or a punch and hammer to drive out the old bushings.
9. Install New Bushings:
- Insert the new bushings into the leaf spring eyes and/or the shackle.
- Press them in evenly using a bushing press or a punch and hammer.
- Ensure the bushings are seated correctly.
10. Reassembly:
- Reverse the removal process to reassemble the leaf springs, U-bolts, shock absorbers, and sway bar.
- Hand-tighten all nuts and bolts.
11. Tighten the Bolts and Nuts:
- Gradually tighten the U-bolts, sway bar bolts, and shock absorber bolts in a crisscross pattern to evenly distribute the weight.
- Ensure everything is snug.
12. Reattach the Wheels:
- Put the wheels back on and reinstall the lug nuts. Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
13. Lower the Car:
- Slowly lower the car off the jack stands.
14. Final Check:
- Double-check all nuts and bolts to ensure they are properly tightened.
By following these steps, you can safely remove and replace the rear leaf spring bushings on a 1967 Camaro. Remember to use caution when working with heavy components and always refer to the vehicle's repair manual for specific instructions and safety guidelines.
