Contemplating 52's, how to accomodate existing bumper?

[josh86k10]

I've been running Rough Country 6" front springs for several years, and anyone who runs them knows why I'm trying to figure out how to swap in some 52's. About a year ago I went ahead and moved my rear hanger forward to soften the ride a bit, and it worked...somewhat. But I still could use some decent flex. More recently I bit the bullet and had a long travel front shaft made here locally (approx. 21" of travel). So what has stopped me from going 52"? My bumper. I built it several years ago and I'm sort of fond of it. Here's a picture from back then to show why it is an issue:

Right now I've got the axle moved forward with a zero rate 1.5". I'd like to lose the zero rate and use the 2" from the spring swap. Will the B52's solve my problem? I've stolen my Dad's welder enough lately (the machine and the employee) so I'd prefer to just buy something that would solve all my problems, if such a thing exists and doesn't break the bank. What about putting the hanger directly under the body mount and keeping the zero rate?

It'll probably be a bit before I actually do this, but I like to get my ducks in a row well in advance.

Thanks in advance guys.

 

[nvrenuf]

I have a set of B52's mounted on a 87 K5 frame. Your 3 forward bumper bolts could be used but the B52 bracket will cover the hole for the rear most bolt. I'd suggest calling Kert, he can probably modify the B52 to accomdate your needs.

 

[k5 krawler 50]

x2 on the b52 brackets. I have them on my truck with the forward most posisition and i have my stock bumper mounted up in the stock location. So i'm sure you could work something out with these brackets.

 

[RaisedK5]

x3, i have the DIY B-52's and had the same worry. Mine went on without a problem. Most i could see you having to do is grind that back edge of the bumper bracket a little.

 

[Wrench]

props for a sweet bumper

 

[josh86k10]

Does anyone know what kind of axle position and shackle angle I would achieve if I just mounted the "off-the-shelf" B52's in the rearward position (forward set of mounting holes on bracket) on the frame and used the forward-most set of spring eye holes? I think most people get 2.5" using forward mounting/ forward spring eye holes, but I can't find any information on rearward mounting/ forward spring eye holes. How far apart are the mounting hole set centerlines? I'm guessing it would net around 1.5" forward but I really don't know, nor do I have a clue what the shackle angle would look like. Any ideas or thoughts from those that have played around with the B52's? Keep in mind my rear hangers are already moved forward as per the numerous write-ups. Thanks.

 

[nvrenuf]

I have my B52's mounted as you're describing, rear mounting holes / forward spring bolt hole. I haven't done any measuring but the axle is moved forward a fair amount (I'd guess 2"). The shackle angle in the pic isn't great but there's also no motor/trans/t-case to weigh it down.

This pic will give you some idea of what you could expect -

 

[RaisedK5]

See pics, Axle location Approximately stock, (within an inch) and 6" shackle. 2"lift 52's btw.

 

[nvrenuf]

[hijack]

RaisedK5, got any full side shots of the truck? What size tires? Thanks

[/hijack]