epiphany

[68MUDSTUD]

ok I have a 71 k5 and this summer i put a 4 inch lift on it, front springs and shackle flip rear, with zero rates...

well, at the end of the summer, I put the double wall top back on it, and it is either level or just barely sagging in the rear. I hate it. So, tonight I have an epiphany. Why not make the shackles a bit longer, just 1-2 inches? would my zero rates be enough to correct the offset? Or, could I fab something to go in the front of the rear axle? Hmm.. im gonna have to look at it tomorrow.

edit: Keep in mind I daily drive this. So, it has to be streetable.

 

[mechted]

yep, this is a pretty common way to get 1/2 to 2" of rear lift.

Yes you can fab it, search will show multiple examples of people doing that exactly.
Also, you can buy extended shackles off the shelf from places like DIY4X, ORD, etc. Check the vendor forum

 

[Greg72]

Good Idea.....

The complete series of shackle mods are here:

http://www.norcalbigdawgs.net/Gallery/album50

 

[MNorby]

i extended my stock rear shackles to 7" eye to eye to match my front shackles. I sit a tad ass high or level and think I may drop down to 6" when I build nice shackles instead of my modified stock ones. Prob see pics in my build thread somewhere

 

[Corey 78K5]

If your rear springs are original then they are 36 years old and worn out. Get new spring packs!

 

[68MUDSTUD]

If your rear springs are original then they are 36 years old and worn out. Get new spring packs!

I was also thinking about doing that too. If i get new spring packs though, im just gonna go with 6" lift springs. since thats about what I want. But, I really dont want to do all that with just half tons... maybe this spring when i get some cash ill nab onto some 3/4 or 1tons. and some new wheels.

 

[MNorby]

just get some fresh 56s and a 14FF. Should be able to get pretty cheap and you'll be way ahead.