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The whole rear axle assembly is out for (easiest) access to the suspension rubber pieces. However,...

The FAC with the threaded rod, water pipe etc. is great for how to. My question is, do I need to ? Granted 35 years is a long time. Still, I've done very close visual inspections on the rubber suspension parts to see no crumbs, splits, mushy, nothin.' Felt no slop, heard no squeeks or rattles.

Do we know the replacement bushings are fresher ? Or have they been sitting on a shelf since original manufacture, doing what rubber does over time ?

What is our source for aftermarket (superior performance) suspension bushings ? (To shut up and upgrade.)

Just to be contrary, what calamitous difference would cutting the rear bushings in half, inserting from both sides make ? As opposed to all the squeezing one fat end through the tube.

The bushings are trapped by washers and bolts, they fit tight. If only separated by a thin hacksaw cut in the middle, what possible loosen, spin, rotate, support, crumble, fall apart thing can happen ?

You've looked at both sides of both rubbers? There's not a single tear on either side? Stuck a bolt in each and wanged 'em around bending, stressing the rubber? Then, they've already been replaced. Buy the big puller kit that's available. Fits everything. Beautiful ten or twelve piece kit. Fits perfecto. Big pieces of machined steel. It's a blast to use. This pair for removing, this pair for assembly. The thrust washers on the main shaft are all ball bearinged. The force necessary to pull out the old is huge. Work looks great when you're done. I know you were kidding around talking about cutting stuff up.

Link to puller kit your talking about?

I wouldn't cut the bushings in half, the poly ones come that way because they are much stiffer and it's the only way to get them in.