52's up front need some advice

[73redblaze]

im putting 52s up front in my 73 blazer. since i already put a shacle flip and 64's in the rear i figure, why not? so for the front shacle how long are they eye to eye. i think i remember somthing about 7 1/4 or somthing. is that right? thanks guys

 

[cybrfire]

I've never run more than a 6" up front.

 

[ccj8008]

x2 What he said

I think you have you best answer now. However, shackle angle will be your next question. I personally did not like the angle with the DIY4X kit when the spring are in the most forward position. Additionally, you need a 6-8 degree shim for proper caster angle.

I handled both these issues by buying a set of asymetrical front springs from Alcan at 54" ($460 + S&H). I also offset the axle forward a couple of inches but this requires crossover steering.

Good luck with the build.

 

[MTBLAZER89]

I am using the DIY 7.25" shackles up front. I like how the angle turned out. Good medium between up and down travel. It also depends on how arched your springs are. The more arch the worse your shackle angle will be.

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

I'm running 7.25" shackles and even with shackles that long you would be very hard pressed to bottom out the spring on the frame.

As for reasons not to run 52's? They can be very soft on the street and they require special steering requirements (i.e. crossover or full hydro)

 

[BoondocK5]

I got the 56's up front, with 7.25 shackle, and the shackle angle is almost perfect. oops, sorry I just read this about the 52's