Can someone please explain!!!

[sparks57]

OK, I have asked this before but got some vague answers.



I really want to put a suspension lift on my truck, about 3 inches or so.



Why do you need to put on brand new leaf springs up front? Why can't you just put a block between the springs and the block that goes against the top of the axle?



Someone told me because it will slide... but what if you weld it or make up some kind of clever holding device? All you would have to do is fashion the block, and get some longer shocks and U-bolts... you don't have to mess with anything else for 3 inches do you?



I know you can put blocks on the back, so I don't see why you can't do the same on the front?



All the lift kits I have seen for the 93 is just some new leaf springs, U bolts and some blocks for the back.

 

[fkovalski]

Aside from potential instability, they are illegal in many states. The physics involved in "stilts" at the steering end could cause the blocks to buckle under in a sharp turn. The rear setup mearly trails without the added stress of a pivot condition. I'm sure others can chime in on other reasons not to do this on a street legal truck.

 

[dshockley]

Blocks on the front are a no-no for many reasons. First, blocks can lead to a condition similar to axle wrap, but under hard braking. This results from the added leverage that the axle would have on the spring after the installation of blocks. Secondly, blocks (front or rear) add length to the ubolt which increase the chance of failures. So why is it a bigger deal on the front that is simple, the front steers the truck. If you have a catastrophic failure on the front axle your dead, or worse yet, you hit someone else in your 6500lb truck and because you performed a modification that is not recommended by anyone, you are personally liable. Bottom line, bite the bullet, spend the $300 and do it right. (period!!)



Have a great day,

Dan

 

[sparks57]

Well, that's why I asked... and it's a good thing I didn't try it first.



Thanks a lot, I'm sure other people will benefit from these explenations.



One thing though, when I do buy a lift kit... are there other considerations with a 3" lift? Like drivelines or steering arms or any other mods that aren't directly addressed in a kit? From what I have seen, all the lift kits for first gens are very simple and straight forward.

 

[PPeters]

At 3" you are looking at new shocks. I needed them, the stock ones don't fit. You want to get the extended and compressed specs from wherever you buy the lift kit, and match the shocks to the travel specs. I tried to install Rancho RS9000's with a Skyjacker 2. 5" lift, and no go, the Ranchos don't have a shock for the travel spec's for the Skyjacker kit, so bought Skyjacker Shocks (non adjustable ) that matched the kit. On the upside, they are definitely cheaper. You may also be looking at steering gear mod's, drive shaft lengths/angles. Call the tech support numbers for the lift suppliers and ask them, they should be able to tell you everything.



Just my . 02



Pat

 

[cguthrie]

I don't like blocks at all, when i buy the lift for my truck i'm gonna either have custom springs made or buy the kit with the rear springs. It's a little bit more expensive but i think it's worth it.



Chris