I got rear sway bar link bushings and it came with the piece that goes on the upper portion that is attached to the chassis. I replaced the ones that connect to the sway bar but I couldn't get the ones off in the picture (in red) below. Is it just elbow grease? Or do I need a special tool?

 

Elbow grease. Some real grease or penetrating oil helps too. A small, stiff serrated blade is your best friend with those.

 

Elbow grease. That's what I thought!