Decisions, decisions-sagging springs

[Ranger305]

Rebuilding the 92 regarding cab short bed i've had since '95. Currently on stock 25yo Springs that have been overloaded a few times and are somewhat flat. The truck sits within 1/4" of perfectly level. I actually like the way it looks, but wouldn't mind if the front was 1" lower. Truck will be used for some moderate hauling, but 95% couple day a week/weekend driver. Also trying to work on a budget. I am going for a better street-stock look

Should I get new Springs and flip the shackles, or leave it alone and put new shocks on it? Ride is ok, but I want it to handle well.

Any options for the front? New 2" Springs may or may not get me what I would like.

The truck still sits on 215/70-14 stock aluminum and I may go with 15 or 16 wheels later if I need to for brake upgrades in the format of mustang discs on the rear. Might even do old school 235/60-15x8, so I would need to be able to clear those. The current 14's give me about 2 1/4" clearance under the fender lip front and back, so I'm not sure how far under stock it already sits.

 

[Doofy]

I threw air shocks on the rear of my '98. Big difference. Was cheap also.

 

[Mark_88]

Air shocks will help...so would adding a leaf to the existing suspension...not hard or expensive and a shop can do it in a few hours...

I would suggest checking the hangers front and back and see if they need attention too...might consider doing a few things all at once to clean it up and give you your ride back.

Bigger tires might require a lift...body is easy and cheap...I went with 15" 10 hole aluminum rims (original on first gens) and ran as big as 235/70 15s without rubbing front or back...and I think the 92 has slightly wider openings than the 88 did...

 

[Ranger305]

Thanks for the info so far. Air shocks are something I hadn't considered. I also ran across under leaf helpers that are supposed to add carry capacity but not height. Any experience with them?

 

[Doofy]

I added overload springs on my first attempt to remove the say. They did raise the ass end a couple of inches. I was worried about the added stress on the springs so I added the air shocks and then backed off on the tension on the overloads. The air shocks can raise the rear 4-5 inches.

I haul 16 foot lumber using a receiver hitch rack extension and need the extra stiffness and support. The ride is great too.