Another new guy question...

[WestTXK5Guy]

I'm wanting to put a 3" lift on my Blazer. I know this doesn't seem like much but since it's a DD I don't want to get too crazy with it. My plan is to go MUCH higher once everything else is done. Paint, interior, new motor/tranny, etc. What I'm wondering is how much degree of shim would I need to maintain "optimal" driveshaft angle? I'm reading alot about the shims but am honestly quite confused. So I brought my question and confusion to you guys for help. Please?!?!?!

Kris

P.S. Blank I'm still working on getting that info for you and the rest of the guys on here.

Edit...I'm wanting to either put 35x12.50 or 36x10.50 tires on my Blazer. Just for info on the lift and driveline angle.

 

[throttleissues]

I lifted my k20 about 3.5 front and 2.5 rear and run 36x13.50x17 Bias Iroks. If you use a shackle flip out back, you shouldn't need any shim corrections at either end. Also, remember that shimming front axle changes caster settings.

 

[WestTXK5Guy]

Hey Thanks!!! I'm very new to the game of building 4x4's. I've done lots of motor work and basic automotive mechanical things, but never anything as far as suspension or anything like that. Your advice is very appreciated.

 

[bigred88]

And now for an even newer new guy question- what's a shackle flip? I'm kind of in the same boat as WestTX, I've got a lot of experience with cars, but this is my first 4x4. I'm looking into lifting mine as well.

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

And now for an even newer new guy question- what's a shackle flip? I'm kind of in the same boat as WestTX, I've got a lot of experience with cars, but this is my first 4x4. I'm looking into lifting mine as well.

On the rear of Chevy trucks, the shackle is bolted to the frame at the bottom and to the spring at the top.

A shackle flip uses a new bracket and repositions the shackle such that it bolt to the frame at the top and the spring at the bottom. This allows you to reuse your stock rear springs and gain 2.5" or 4" of lift (depending on which one you get). Its cheaper than buying new lift springs and it flexes and rides better (better than stock even ). Here's a link to one of the shackle flips offered:

http://offroaddesign.com/catalog/shacklekit.htm

 

[bigred88]

Is it better than all new springs? Because looking at ORD's site, and reading their buildup on an 88 burb
(which they used their 3" kit w/a shackle flip), it looks like it's about the same price as a rancho or skyjacker kit with 4 new springs. And I think that after 160,000 miles, its about time for my sagging rear leafs to be replaced.

 

[jonathon]

Shackle flip should give a better ride and better articulation because of the flatter springs.

The springs in my Sub have 105K on them and sag a bit.. I'm planning to tear them apart and inspect them for cracks and such and throw some paint on them and install new bushings. I'm doing a 2.5" shackle flip and adding 1" zero rates to make up for the sag, using 2" springs up front.

 

[Desert Yeti]

Shackle flip offer good ride and flex because it keeps the spring flatter (less arch for the same amount of elevation). A 4 inch shackle flip in the rear and 3 inch lift springs in the front is a great combo to clear 35's with no problem and still be totally manageable for a daily driver.

Do some reading elsewhere on this forum about front springs, spring rates, and name brands of lift springs. Everyone's got their own opinion on this stuff, but as I recall there are a couple of brands that pretty much everyone says rides pretty harsh that you may want to stay away from.

As for personal experience, I can highly recommend Tuff Country springs... I love the ride, on road and off, and the flex is fantastic.

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

Shackle flips get more of their flex and softer ride characteristics from the shackle angle than anything else.

 

[Desert Yeti]

Shackle flips get more of their flex and softer ride characteristics from the shackle angle than anything else.

Also true.

 

[BillyBob]

I used a Tough Country EZ ride setup in the front, and a shackle in the rear.
Everything lined up for the most part. However I needed to add a spacer to the front driveshaft to make it long enough. Kinda weird, but whatever.
Just make sure you get everything done. Don't be liek me and ride around without rear shocks. Sure, the bouncing is fun, but I guarantee if I wasn't as good a driver as I am, I woulda killed someone.
Issues fitting the 35s? Not much. After everything settled, though, I needed to hack the front fender lips off. Since then, everything's been fine.