Rear Lift Alternative (Not using blocks)

TheBrettster

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Dec 9, 2010
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This is just a general census for those who do not want to sacrifice ride quality and deal with axle wrap.

I was able to lift the rear of my truck about 6 inches using the following. You can gain more if you want by leaving in the OEM 1 inch block but will probably require a 7 degree shim.

Mcgaughys 1-2 inch lift hangers/shackle flip
Belltech 6401 Shackles (drop) 1-3 lift.
BDS 6 degree 2.5 inch shims + 3/8's center pin.

This will set your drive shaft at a decent angle not giving you any vibration. Ride quality is better than stock IMO.

1082504_10202846629820455_8002708507015323831_o.jpg
 
Shackles were about 50 bucks and the lift hangers are 127 according to mcgaughys site. Shims and center pins were 14 bucks locally.
 
Should note that if the truck sees action/abuse that it is not a good idea to run lowering shackles in compression. They generally are not made as beefy as needed since they are meant to be in tension. My lowering shackles I used in my shackle flip are twisted/bent and I have some ORD super shackles to replace them.

Example:
ORD%20HDrear%20shackles4.jpg

Super shackles vs stock.
tahoesas028.jpg
 
Should note that if the truck sees action/abuse that it is not a good idea to run lowering shackles in compression. They generally are not made as beefy as needed since they are meant to be in tension. My lowering shackles I used in my shackle flip are twisted/bent and I have some ORD super shackles to replace them.

Example:
ORD%20HDrear%20shackles4.jpg

Super shackles vs stock.
tahoesas028.jpg

Exactly,

Although the belltechs are way thicker than OEM.
 
Do you ever pull with your truck? I'm assuming that falls within the "action" part of your post. I would love to do this set up but cannot risk not being able to pull my enclosed. I'm pretty sure it's out of the question with the flip done anyway but a light trailer loaded properly shouldn't be near as bad.

Great write up also!
 
Status update, everything is still good. Did a couple of bern erts and drive like mad etc etc. Leafs are still good and shackles are straight still.