Is it just an axle flip? If so then the axle is just moved from the bottom to the top while maintaining the original pinion due to the bracket that positions the axle on top of the springs. Look at the yellow piece that saddles the axle tube. I hate the insert on this site.
http://www.classicshoptalk.com/attac...5&d=1338921462

 

DJM's system doesn't require shims. They are engineered to lower the rear end without changing the pinion angle.

Shims are required when flipping only the front leaf spring hangers because only one end of the leaf spring changes position. In fact, if you actually measured before and after a hanger flip you will find that the axle moved forward by a fraction of an inch and results in the pinion angle pointing upwards. DJM's system raises both ends of the leaf spring. Therefore, the axle maintains its relative position before and after the parts are installed.

 

Yes pinion shims are required! The guy you talked to must have been on crack. The rear kit WILL change your pinion angle because most of the drop is accomplished by the new front hanger. The new rear shackle gives only a bit of drop so the axle will not be dropped evenly. The axle will end up being tilted upward slightly, changing your pinion angle. Here is the page on the DJM site that has the shims:
Search Results pinion
They have 2,4 and 6 degree shims. The bolt they supply is nice too because it's got a longer head to make up for the increased thickness with the shim added. (By the way AIM supplies the shim with their kit. Check the picture earlier somewhere in this thread.) As for how much shim you need to measure your pinion angle before you start, then check it afterward to determine how much shim you need. I estimated and got the 6 degree shim but I haven't got my truck box reinstalled yet as it's still getting painted. Pinion angle needs to be measured with the weight on the wheels.

 

Here's the picture of the Aim kit showing the shim (upper left).

 

The reference was to the DJM system, not the AIM system.

 

Same principle though HIO and the rear kits are similar if not the same. I put the DJM system on mine. It doesn't drop the axle evenly. There's no room to drop the back much so most of the drop has to be accomplished with the front hanger bracket.

 

Did you change out the coil springs? I'm looking to do this to mine very soon but can't seem to find any coil springs anywhere that aren't stock.

 

They usually change names due to banckrupcy I thought. Seemed to me DJM was a little better in quality but i don't know anything yet, just looking on here for details before I start mine.

 

No need to change your coil springs unless you need new ones. Replace with stock spec.

 

Detroit spring has new springs and offers dropped configurations. I have their 1" drop springs myself https://www.eatondetroitspring.com/

 

so you did not need to have the "I" beams bent to lower?

 

Do you have any pics of your truck with the 1" lowered spring installed?

 

Bending I beams is to correct camber which changes due to shorter springs. Factory beams can be bent, if you can find a shop with the equipment and knowledge to do it. It doesn't make the truck lower, merely corrects the alignment after you lower it with springs. Without correction, the tires will lean in at the top, look goofy, and wear your tires out quickly.

 

Not off hand, but I can snap a couple for you when I get a chance.

 

Sounds good! I'm still toying with the idea of cutting coils with drop beams or doing air bags with drop beams. I like the idea of being able to drop the truck really low when parked, but I don't want to cut the truck up.