Removing rear leafs for flex??

[ZERO½]

Hey guys...kinda new to building a ranger for trail type purpose...done the mud thing but over that! looking to keep it cheap for right now...Was wondering if my idea would work, any ifo, good or bad would be greatly appreciated!!

Could i Remove 1, possibly 2 of the rear leaf springs to make it softer and allow more flew, but the put lift shackles and blocks to get the height and a little more back?? not goin big...running 31s...dumb idea?

 

[atvkid4eva]

Check out this tech article on the 63" Chevy leaf swap. I do it instead of your original plan.


http://www.therangerstation.com/Magazine/May06/chevy_springs.htm

 

[Original_Ranger84]

Yeah by removing leafs out of the pack you are reducing the load rating and integrety of them. Your more likely to break them. Not to mention that I believe most rangers unless you got the tow package have 2 leafs per spring.

you would be much better off doing the shackes to gain more height and flex.

 

[ZERO½]

Yeah by removing leafs out of the pack you are reducing the load rating and integrety of them. Your more likely to break them. Not to mention that I believe most rangers unless you got the tow package have 2 leafs per spring.

you would be much better off doing the shackes to gain more height and flex.

mine has 3 leafs per side...i just want it to be really soft and acually set a hair lower in the rear than the front will...could i take off just one leaf, then add the shackles and maybe new blocks?

 

[legoms013]

Are you counting the overload too? Most ranger leaf packs have 2 leafs, and an over load.

If you remove a leaf, you will bust the other two I can almost guarantee it.

Stock ranger leaf packs are very soft/flexy and removal of one will over stress the other(s), they aren't that strong to begin with.

If you want less height and more flex, consider doing the chevy 63" leaf swap, stock shackles and no block. Thats your cheapest option.

Or if you have some $$$ saved order a custom set of springs from Alcan or Deaver.

If I were you I'd probably lose the stock 2" block, put a 1" or 1.5" block back under there, and run Beltech 6400 shackles.

 

[disciplerocks]

I've never had a problem flexing a stock Explorer pack. And they are stiffer than Ranger leaves.

 

[Bennybooster]

my ranger leaves flex like crazie, however the front springs dont even move

 

[ZERO½]

Ok if you guys think the rear will have enough flex for mild roading, what would be the best way to get the front up higher without breaking the bank?? what would it take to get the front an inch or so higher than the rear if the rear was stock??

and thnx for all the info guys..Apreciate it!!

 

[Sunk]

Either some washers or the F-150 spring spacers. There are a few links in the Tech Library at the top of the page with more info.

 

[ZERO½]

I seen them Tech threads, just didnt know if it would be enough lift...could i do new shales in the rear, and like maybe 2" lift coils, with some spacers below that to get some decent height?

 

[Sunk]

With 2 inch lifts coils and spacers, you'll need axle pivot drop brackets to be able to align it. With stock brackets you're looking at about 1.5-2" lift max.

 

[ZERO½]

And where is the best place to find the brackets?? how much they usually run??

Again thnx for the help for the NOOB here!!

 

[Sunk]

You can buy them here on the site, many other retailers such as 4 Wheel Parts, members on the site or eBay/ craigslist.

You can get just brackets for around $200, but then you might as well get 4 or 6 inch coils, then you'll need a lift for the rear as well as longer radius arms, extended brake lines and longer shocks, bigger tires and gears and lockers.

Are we still talking on the cheap?

 

[ZERO½]

You can buy them here on the site, many other retailers such as 4 Wheel Parts, members on the site or eBay/ craigslist.

You can get just brackets for around $200, but then you might as well get 4 or 6 inch coils, then you'll need a lift for the rear as well as longer radius arms, extended brake lines and longer shocks, bigger tires and gears and lockers.

Are we still talking on the cheap?

Well that aint the route im looking to go...i want a little lift, with smaller, wide tires with some wheel gap...just looking for the best route...im still gonna drive this truck on the road...not as a DD but roll thru town if i wanna...not looking to get all crazy..just creek ride!

Thnx for all the help tho!!

 

[disciplerocks]

not looking to get all crazy

I think we've all said that.