By ZMan, Photos Courtesy of BigChaz
Flipping the rear spring hangers is a common how-to question in the forums. Primarily, it is done to lower the rear of the truck and is good for ~2″. I have also heard it makes for more suspension travel and is popular with the prerunner crowd.
Step 1 (optional): Remove the bed of the truck. This will make things a whole lot easier, but it is an optional step. Soak all the bed bolts in penetrating lubricant a couple times a day for about a week to make removing them a little easier. Take out the taillights and loosen the light wiring.
Step 2: Cut the four rivets holding the hangers to the frame. This can be done with an angle grinder, air chisel (or air hammer), or a torch (be very careful if using a torch!). I found that an air chisel is the easiest way to do this. Make sure to have the frame supported with jack stands when you knock the hangers loose from the frame.
Step 3: Rotate the shackle/hanger assembly so it is upside down and bolt it back into place using 3/8×1 inch long Grade 8 bolts and nuts w/locking washers. Its also a good idea to get some paint on the frame before bolting them back up to help fight corrosion.
<–Before–>
<–After–>
Anyone that has removed spring hangers knows what a pain it can be. But it’s a simple and cheap procedure. Total Cost: under 5 dollars in bolts. Skill Level: On a scale of 1-10 I’d give it a 5. ~ TRS
About The Author
Jim Oaks is the founder of The Ranger Station, one of the longest-running Ford Ranger enthusiast communities on the web. He has spent over three decades owning, modifying, repairing, and driving Ford Rangers on the street, trail, and cross-country routes.
Since launching TheRangerStation.com in 1999, Jim has documented thousands of real-world Ranger builds, technical repairs, drivetrain swaps, suspension modifications, and off-road tests contributed by owners worldwide. His work has been referenced by enthusiasts, mechanics, and off-road builders looking for practical, experience-based information rather than theoretical advice.
Jim’s hands-on experience includes long-distance overland travel, trail use, drivetrain and axle upgrades, suspension tuning, and platform comparisons across multiple Ranger generations. The content published on The Ranger Station is grounded in first-hand experience and community-verified data, not marketing claims or generic specifications.