72 truck front spring questions.

[72 K20]

I have a 72 chevy 3/4 ton truck that has 46'' eye to eye front leafs with 7'' shackles that appear to be homemade out of 5/8 aluminum. Im pretty sure all 67-72's had 44'' springs with 4'' shackles factory. My first question is, are these shackles safe to use? I planned on replacing them eventually but I need to drive the truck while my other one is down. My second question, what would be the benefit, if any, of having a longer spring and shackle with the shackle angle changed? Rockcrawling maybe? Thanks for any help in advance.

 

[dfl701]

the 7 inch shackle was used to gain alittle bit of lift. a 52 spring swap is very common because it allows you to gain alot more flex in the front.

 

[bp71k5]

with 7'' shackles that appear to be homemade out of 5/8 aluminum.

It's tough to say what's safe or not, but I wouldn't run aluminum shackles. Stock steel versions are dirt cheap in a wrecking yard and have been properly tested.