Leaf spring bushings going bad - 3rd and 4th generation

[Cntrysthbst]

This is on a 4th generation,

The front part of the leaf spring bushings are bad, I can move the leaf springs somewhat side to side with my hand. Been fighting the wheel lately, the steering would shift, I'd have to turn both front tires either to the left or right to adjust for the shift. I couldn't figure it out, I thought the front end was causing this shift. Anyways I wedged some large nails in the sides of the leaf springs to center it. It drives 10 times better. One of the nails came loose from the movement of the leaf spring though. They are held on with wire ties for those wondering if that's me in front of you..lol. The dealer here will not work on leaf springs. Is it possible to replace these bushings? I'm thinking not, cause as soon as I unbolt the front leaf spring its going to whip the crap out of me. What are my options? Thanks

[Cntrysthbst]

Found a dealer that will work on it $1100.00. Total of 10 bushings, and both hangers in back needs replaced on both sides do to rust. The bushings are pressed. Most of money is labor. So back to square one, does anyone know of a material hard enough, about 3/16 thick, that I can wedge in there to keep it from making noise? Metal to metal makes a loud sratching sound when the springs are rocking. Thanks

[Bernard Feltzer]

Look in the phone book for a garage that does spring work.
I had a whole leaf spring replaced including labor for $150.00.
Ask around at body shops.

[Cntrysthbst]

Oh gosh that's not bad at all, thats how much the dealer wanted for just the front 2 leaf spring bushings, will do, thanks.

Just reread, was that just for the spring? What about the mounts/arms that are in the rear? Was that included? And from what the dealer told me, I could do the labor, the springs wont snap back - just take the load off. Does that sound right? Thanks

[Cntrysthbst]

What caused you to replace the leaf spring? What was it doing?

[Cntrysthbst]

I bought some nuts today and wedge them to center the leaf spring in the front. Seems like like it works and they don't move around but now I hear clunks everytime I hit a bump in the road. Can't figure out why.

[Cntrysthbst]

What purpose does the Panhard rod serve?