Removing the shackles on my 75 cj5

I need to remove the 8" shackles on my 75 cj5 and I am new at this game. I've got the weight off the real axle and and easy access. If I remove the bolts at this point will the leaf group float or am I missing something?

Also will the shock with 12" of play absorb taking off the shackle or should I disconnect the shock first?

Is the attachment point on the bottom leaf plate for the shock typical for this situation?

Thanks for any help.

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Removing the shackles on my 75 cj5