Easiest Way To Remove OME Leaf Spring Bushings?

I've got a set of OME Dakar leaf packs that I'm prepping to go into my truck in about two weeks. I'm reading on this forum that the bushings that come with the leaf packs are prone to squeaking. I've got a set of 4 new 60mm bushings.

Anyone think that I'm doing unnecessary work? Whats the best way to remove these bushings? Looks like the bushing is housed in a metal sleeve and that is pushed into the leaf spring eye.

Even if I keep these bushings I'd need to move one over so its centered in the leaf so any suggestions to edge it over a bit are welcome. I'm thinking large socket + hammer against the outer sleeve?

 

Unnecessary. I don't think it's the bushings squeaking, I think it's the leaf on leaf squeaking.

 

Lol, you know I was just doing some more searching and I'm totally mistaken. I thought since the replacement leaf spring bushings came with 4 pairs that I was supposed to remove the pre-installed front ones. Turns out that I only need two pairs for the rear and I'll have two pairs left.

Just tried drifting the off-center one with a socket and it worked fine

 

I tried to remove the bushing from my first set of dakars so I could grease the shit out of them but couldn't get them off. If you can go for it.

 

Drill a grease zerk into each spring before you install .
Have also seen the through bolts with grease zerks to keep the bolt from seizing .

 

Drill a hole in the rubber, stuff a jigsaw in the hole, cut outwards toward the metal outer of the bushing,once through pry inwards on metal. I actually cut the entire center of the bushing out before i went after the metal....wish i had a press.....

 

Why

 

I removed mine and went with poly bushings on both ends.
Reason... the factory installed ones will eventually slide to one side and the wrapped leaf will rub against the inside tab. It didn't make much noise, but it bugged me the factory bushing wouldn't remain centered. I've been happy with the outcome and glad I ditched the shitty factory type bushings.

I was able to remove the factory type bushing by soaking it in silicone spray and by smashing it with a hammer. Heat would work better though.