Rear spring shackle question

["Patton Dickson" <kpdii@mindspring.com>]

is it normal to have to remove the gas tank to remove the right rear
shackle?  the "U" opens outward, and there doesn't seem to be enough room to
slide it our with the gas tank in place. (if anyone is curious, it's because
I am replacing the upper rubber bushings)

Is the "U" facing outward for a reason, I could point it inward when I
replace it, and not have this problem if I ever have to do this again.

Patton

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Patton Dickson - Madison, MS - http://members.xoom.com/spridget/
67 AH Sprite
65 Corvair 110/4sp Monza Vert
23 Model T Speedster