52s vs custom front leaves

[6.2Blazer]

Absolutely no reason to use shorter shocks. If the springs are compressing too far the correct way to fix that is to lower the bump stops.

 

[COCHEV]

Okay.. So I changed the shocks out, ( i used 07 F150 4x4 rear shocks) extended the brake lines (used 88 c2500 brake lines), and replaced the shackle bushings. Took it out today and kinda got it flexed a bit and the front shocks bottomed out.. BUT when they did, my leafs were inverted (slightly).. So I'm wondering if I should install the over load leaf or install bump stops.. I am right to think that the leaf pack inverting is not okay right? Haha.

What do y'all think?

Moving slightly off topic:

Did you mount those shocks in the factory location? Are they just stock replacement like from Napa?

What did you do for the rear lift?

 

[cybrfire]

Putting a spring designed for the rear in the front pretty much ends up wrong every time, that's why people that use them on the trail tear them up constantly (I've personally been there, done that).

Awful lot of my customers using the 52's up front for several years now with great success.

Bumpstops and limit straps and keeping the wrap in check can be pretty huge in making the rear springs last up front for a long time.

I killed my 52's in one quick shot. They were still in the rear when they were killed. It wasn't where they were mounted on the truck, but the wrap that got them.

 

[Fred_M1010]

Springs are wear parts just like brake pads IMO.
So let them flex like crazy, and replace them when they go bad
Just make sure to use bump stops and limiting straps so you don't bottom out the shocks or drive shaft.

 

[Blue85]

A set of springs can go down the road for 20 years with just a bit of sag, but be destroyed by one day in the dunes if you don't have bumps/limits.

 

[cybrfire]

Another thing I always felt was glazed over or completely left out of the 52's discussion is, saying "52's" doesn't really say much. There are quite a few different spring rates from GM for the 52's. We haven't talked about Dodge 52's yet.

I know, I like to find a good set of used springs but you kinda need to know what to look for. Used is OK, beat down will probably not serve you very long.

 

[COCHEV]

A few different spring rates available...

http://www.stengelbros.com/GMLeafSprings.htm#Van

Anyone know how to compare the load capacity to the spring rate?

 

[Ned Kelly]

My 3" alcans are flat at ride height. I DIDN'T like driving mine without the sway bar though. ALOT of body roll. Hooked the swaybar up and couldnt be happier.

Did you use the sway bar disconnect kit?
Is your center pin location stock or moved 1" forward?
X-over steerning?

 

[SonnyB]

Moving slightly off topic:

Did you mount those shocks in the factory location? Are they just stock replacement like from Napa?

Yea just installed them like normal ones, I did have to drill out the bushing sleeve a tad (even tho the Gabriel spec sheet said they were 1/2") also needed to make a small sleeve spacer at the top, as well as shorten the lower bushing sleeve.

What did you do for the rear lift?

I am still running stock rear springs..

 

[SonnyB]

Hey guys! okay, so ive been driving it around (on-road) and its great. I really like it.. I haven't been able to go off roading much due to my aging BFG's but whatever haha.. I just hauled a car the other day and at 55mph it was "okay" if the sway bar was connected it wounda been great im sure.

Anywho! I need to lift the rear.. Its not a prerunner so it shouldnt look like one! lol.. Id like to go with lift springs or shackle flip. Anyone have either laying around??