So I should go ahead and replace the hangers and shackles with stock stuff now and be done with it.

 

Yes, if they are rusty

 

Got the truck back. Oxygen sensor replaced. What a strange design for where that goes. A real pain to get to for a part that is guaranteed to be practically welded in place. A noticeable difference in exhaust smell at idle. Seems like that should do the trick for emissions. Might try to get that done this weekend, and possibly get the bed cut off. Need to find some big blocks of wood to set the bed on so it isn't sitting on the ground.

 

sitting the bed on the ground will not hurt it one bit

 

So had a fun time with the local parts stores today. Yes, plural. Apparently each one doesn't stock more than one rear spring hanger or shackle. In an attempt to save myself some time and, with a 20% off code, some money, I ordered them online from two separate stores. When I went to get the first one from the store closer to where I am working than where I live, I was in and out quickly. I made the mistake however of not checking the box to ensure that both the shackle and the hanger were there. The box seemed plenty heavy. I then proceeded to store number two which is about 5 minutes from my front door. When I got there I decided to open the box I had already picked up to find that I was missing the entire shackle assembly. I went inside to pick up the hanger/shackle kit from this store, but this time checked the box, finding that it too was missing the shackle. This "kit", however, was also missing the hardware for the hanger. How does this happen? This is what I get for trying to make any steps quicker than they need to be.

 

Made some good progress today.



Rear spring hangers. Shot! Especially driver's side.

 

My plan was to just cut the bumper off, but I looked up how expensive the brackets are, and it has me second guessing. I plan to drop the gas tanks, which will require new hardware and straps guaranteed. Trying to plan this out well, and realizing my need for much more indoor space. The clock is ticking on good weather. Money isn't helping anything. Can't really space out purchases.

 

 

 

 

 

Looks good, keep up the good work.

 

Is that rustoleum 'rusty metal' paint?

 

Yes it is. It will be getting a top coat of por15 chassis black.

Thanks for the kind words, rock.

 

Don't waste your time with the POR15 topcoat, Get whatever the cheapest thing you can get. That rustolium "primer" will be flaking off in no time