I am in the middle of replacing my rear bushings, and shocks...and probably springs on my 69 442. In addition, i am cleaning up all the rust and repainting everything underneath.

my question is it seems that it would be easier to just remove the axle completly or do create a bunch of alignment issues when I do that?

thanks,
Bob

 

I would not worry about alignment issues, just remove it.

 

Bob, I don't think you'd have any alignment issues more than if you do just one arm at a time. You would need to separate the brake line and emergency brake cables if your going to pull the rear end out from under the car. The brake line would require you to bleed the brake system. If you've not gone through your brakes yet this could lead to a "might as well"

John

 

Another option is pulling the axle shafts, then removing the brake backing plates while leaving the brake lines intact. If you plan to change the diff fluid this may be an option vs. removing the brake lines and bleeding the system after reassembly. I've done it both ways depending upon the circumstance.

And as the others have stated, there is no alignment issue to worry about.

 

Brakes need bled anyway, so not an issue. I am taking the axle out tomorrow. Thanks everyone.

anyone have recommendations for rear coils?

 

Eaton Spring has what you need for the springs, stock spec, and many others.
I think the 8s and 9s ride a little low from the factory I replaced mine with a slightly heavier dual rate spring to get it another inch higher. Did poly bushings too. No give in those polys. Great for getting the power to the ground. These are the non-greasables, which I don't recommend.as they squeak once warm.
Definitely pull the rear. Its easier to do the bushings especially the ones on the housing ears. Safety tip...Replace that rubber brake line while you're in there.
Remember to torque the chassis fasteners with the car on the ground at ride height.