TR2/3/3A Rear Shock and link remove and replace

[jfarris]

1956 TR3 with a Girling rear axle
I removed both rear shocks and links today in preparation to have the shocks rebuilt and install new links. The driver's side came out pretty easy because the bottom end of the link was pretty much shot and very flexible in all directions. The link also separated from the shock arm with very little persuasion. The pax side was a different story. I could not get the bottom of the link out of the plate bracket on the bottom of the spring. I had to cut the link midway to get the shock out, then cut the bolt on the bottom of the link to get it out of the plate bracket. To top it off, the top bolt on the link is stuck in the shock lever. I think it will have to travel to Worldwide Auto Parts and they can press it out.
So, my issue is that if the links that are even in so so shape are so hard to get out, how am I going to get a new one into the plate on the bottom of the spring?
Do you have to loosen or remove the u-bolts on the spring to install new shop links? Of course, I'll use anti-seize on the top bolts that attach the link to the shock arm.
Thanks in advance!

 

[sp53]

Rear shocks are a pain; seems I remember loosening up the U bolts with a floor jack on the leaf or something. Do you know the vibration trick to get the shock off the tapered link? I hold them in midair then smack the shock tapered hole on the side with about a 3 pound hammer and if done correct with the right vibration the link kinda magically falls away to the ground, really. I forget who showed me. I believe someone told me and out of frustration I tried it, and it worked.

steve