Overload leaf removal

[modular]

I am leaving the front end at the stock height but want to level the rear with the front. Did some searching and cannot find the answer to this question...how much will removing the overload leaf spring out of my 1997 2WD standard cab/short bed spring pack lower the rear? Will this affect the rest of the leaves over time? Maybe just put in lowered shackles? Does anyone sell bolt on lowering shackles? I don't really want to mess with the hangers. Thanks

 

[ZMan]

Well its too bad you don't want to mess with the hangers, flipping them is the best way to lower the rear end. Removing the overload leaf will effect the rest of the leafs over time, especially if you haul anything.

I just looked for lowering shackles, and the only thing I could find was lifting shackles, everything else wanted you to mess with the hangers.

So, in the end, I highly suggest just flipping the rear hangers. Its not too hard..

have a friend help you take the bed off.
Use an angle grinder to grind the heads off of the rivets.
Use a hammer and punch to knock the rivets out.
Muscle the hangers around so they're upside-down.
Bolt them back to the frame with the proper size grade-8 hardware (3/8", or drill out the holes to accept a larger size)

 

[Hazmat Ranger]

^^ X2 - I originally flipped my shackles then my axle - too low - so I flipped my shackles back to stock. I have never heard of anyone just removing a spring, they are designed to work as a set and if you remove one, the others will slowly fail as they are dependent on all the springs. Remember stand strong as a team of one, fall apart as individuals.

 

[doorgunner]

It'll lower the rear bumper about 1" to 1&1/2 "s .The guys are right--removing the overload leaf will eventually cause the leaf-pack to sag. But I wanted a smoother ride, so I did it. Waiting for adjustable air shocks to come in so I can carry loads when I need to (and they'll keep the springs fron sagging). I Flipped the rear hangers & shackles in 2 hours (including lunch & a couple coffee breaks--not a big deal but I already had the bed off/if you don't want to take the bed off, just remove the bed bolts & raise the bed by putting 2x4's between the chassis & the bed to give yourself some room to work). Trimmed 1/2 off the rubber bump-stops--rides great if you stay on the street--too soft/low for off-road. That made the truck completely level. So, removing the over-load leaf is not much of a bumper dropper...