Lowered 1st gen help

[Judge330]

I have a lowered 86 ranger, standard cab, long bed, and the leaf springs have seen better days. They barely hold up the rear of the truck anymore. Right now I am using air shocks to make up the difference but it's still bad. I need to replace the rear leaf springs, the problem is that I haven't been able to find lowered leaf springs for my truck. Belltech makes some for the 89-97 styles but nothing for the first gen. I'm trying to stay away from oem replacements if possible. Suggestions? Any input is appreciated.

 

[JoshT]

Not saying they aren't made, but I haven't seen lowering leafs for these trucks in a long time. Honestly you are better off using stock leafs and going a different route to lower it. You don't say how much drop you need but here's some ways to get it low in the rear.

Shackle/hangar flip: 1.5"-2" drop (can get another 1-2" by adding chevy drop shackles)
Axle flip: ~4" drop depending on the axle (drop blocks can be added but not recommended)
Shackle flip + axle flip: 5-7" drop (time for frame notching)