2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission How to Install Coil Spring Spacers ??

[Katmandu]

I haven't found any articles after doing a Search.

Does anyone know of a good "How-To" for installing Coil spring spacers ??

 

[y-knot]

They are very simple, maybe that's why know one has written any instructions for them. Most spacers are 2" but I have seen some 1"'ers, they both install the same. You can raise the truck, disconnect the shocks and maybe the sway bar and let the front axle hang, this will be more then enough to remove the stock front spring or gain access to it. I would just remove the stock spring, and then remove the 3-bolts that secure the spring isolators, do this on each side. Then install the new spring spacer, they bolt right in where the isolators were, with the same 3- bolt pattern. Then depending on the size of your spring spacer, you might need a spring compressor to install the spring. The front axle hangs pretty far with the shock/sway bar link off, I have install a 2" spacer with out the spring compressor by using a crow bar to compress/move the spring into place. But most of the time I use my hydraulic spring compressor which makes installing any spring/spacer or lifted spring a snap. Once the springs are in, just lower the truck to seat the spring and reattach the shocks and sway bar link. it's very easy with the right tools, but can be done with a little imagination.

 

[DRadzierez]

If you dont have a spring compressor just remove the lower trailing arm and the springs and spacers go right in.

 

[Katmandu]

Thanks for your replies guys.

I had visions of me working "trying" to remove the coil springs and the thing unloading with a thousand pounds of pressure aiming right towards my head!!! :-laf

I think I'll save the $190 my mechanic wanted for installing new springs and shocks!

 

[SS]

One tip I rarely see is to loosen and retighen all of the control arm bolts. You can do them one at a time (especially front lower with cam bolts) to allow the bushings to be in a neutral condition at the new ride height. Made a huge difference in ride on mine.

 

[Katmandu]

One tip I rarely see is to loosen and retighen all of the control arm bolts. You can do them one at a time (especially front lower with cam bolts) to allow the bushings to be in a neutral condition at the new ride height. Made a huge difference in ride on mine.

That's a GREAT tip!

This should be added to a FAQ Tech Article!

 

[zstroken]

We chain the stock springs with the weight on the truck. Then they drop right in when you put the spacer in.

 

[Katmandu]

We chain the stock springs with the weight on the truck. Then they drop right in when you put the spacer in.

Can you elaborate on this procedure a bit ???

 

[zstroken]

Use the weight of the truck to compress the spring, then wrap 3 pieces of chain around the sping and run a bolt through each one with the chains as tight as possible. I was never able to get a spring compressor to fit the springs. The chains hold the spring somewhat compressed so it makes the install easier.