73-87chevytrucks.com
73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => Brakes, Frame, Steering & Suspension => Topic started by: Magic1 on December 30, 2013, 02:45:38 pm
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On my 82 Sierra k10 I was thinking about making new shackles for the back of the front leaf springs about an inch longer than stock just to give the front a little lift to help with tire clearance etc. I'm gonna use thicker plate steel but was just curious if I'm gonna be causing myself any problems. I wouldn't think one inch would be an issue but wanted a few opinions first.
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It will add about 2° more positive caster on both front wheels.
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It will slightly affect your front driveline angle. IDK if it will be significant though.
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how will this help with clearance?
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You need realize an inch longer shackle isn't going to raise your vehicle 1", as the axle/wheel that the truck is sitting on is very near halfway in the distance to the front spring eye which is where the rest of the truck is going to pivot from as you install your shackle...approximately 1/2" is what I would expect.
As was already mentioned...it will effect both: adding caster & alter (steepen) the driveshaft/pinion angle.
A better way to go would probably be a helper/add a leaf added to the spring pack. How many leaves does your current pack have? Lorne
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Think I found my solution. I just needed an inch or so in the front and didn't want to add a leaf and stiffen up the ride and was weary about going with taller shackles due to the problems mentioned above. Offroad design has what they call zero rate leaf springs that are basically a block but are installed like an add a leaf so they are safe to use up front but don't stiffen up the spring pack. You can also use them to offset your axle a little if you need to. Would post a link but ain't smart enough. Lol
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This is them: http://offroaddesign.com/catalog/Zero%20Rates.htm
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This is them: http://offroaddesign.com/catalog/Zero%20Rates.htm
That's it. Thanks bud!
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if you add equal distance @ both the front and rear eyelets wouldnt that give u eqaul lift and maintain eqaul weight bearing, stability and keep the leaf function intact
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I did some searching online and it seems that some states consider the ORD zero rate a lift block, makeing it illegal to use on the front axle. I'm sure the laws vary from state to state, and is enforced at the discretion of the inspector.
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if you add equal distance @ both the front and rear eyelets wouldnt that give u eqaul lift and maintain eqaul weight bearing, stability and keep the leaf function intact
First of welcome to the site.
If I understand your question right, by doing this you will make it unstable. That is why 1 side is solid mounted with springs, it would cause it to see-saw back and forth.