Explorer Leaf Spring Swap - 02 4x4 SC

[1996xlt]

After looking through the tech article (very helpful btw): http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/ExplorerLeafs.shtml

I still have a question; will removing my factory lift blocks and using explorer leafs change the pinion angle?

The plan was to swap them straight from one to the other. I've already got the BT 6400 shackles on my truck that raised the rear roughly 2'' but, I think the stock rear leaves are tired and I can get the Ex springs for free. I don't think I'll net any lift from it but, once I get rid of the block just some stiffer springs for when I'm hauling a bed full of junk.

Predicted parts list for the swap:

-Grade 8 hardware for the center pin leaf flip
-Possibly new bushings for the ex springs (220k miles on them)
-New U-bolts? Or re-use the stock ones off the Ex if still serviceable
Am I missing anything?

 

[brinker88]

After looking through the tech article (very helpful btw): http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/ExplorerLeafs.shtml

I still have a question; will removing my factory lift blocks and using explorer leafs change the pinion angle?

The plan was to swap them straight from one to the other. I've already got the BT 6400 shackles on my truck that raised the rear roughly 2'' but, I think the stock rear leaves are tired and I can get the Ex springs for free. I don't think I'll net any lift from it but, once I get rid of the block just some stiffer springs for when I'm hauling a bed full of junk.

Predicted parts list for the swap:

-Grade 8 hardware for the center pin leaf flip

PROPER spring pins are less than $2 each. Get them.

-Possibly new bushings for the ex springs (220k miles on them)

2nd gen bushings are part # RB-237 and RB-131. There are NO Poly bushing kits available for them.

-New U-bolts? Or re-use the stock ones off the Ex if still serviceable
Am I missing anything?

NEVER re-use u-bolts. When torqued properly, the u-bolt threads stretch. When re-tightened, they have a tendency to come loose.

As far as the pinion angle, it SHOULD be fine if your blocks aren't angled to rotate the pinion up. If you do need to readjust your pinion angle, there are shims available to do so. Try to find the bronze ones as the aluminum ones tend to corrode fairly easily. Good luck.

 

[4x4junkie]

NEVER re-use u-bolts. When torqued properly, the u-bolt threads stretch. When re-tightened, they have a tendency to come loose.

http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=147239

To the OP, Explorer U-bolts are a different size, so unless you have a FX4 Ranger with the 31-spl Torsen axle, they'll be too big.

If you're eliminating the block, use U-bolts from a 2WD Ranger.

 

[1996xlt]

Thanks guys!