The picture below is before I took my truck down to the frame. I'm putting it back together now.

I'm putting a 351/AOD in to replace the 292/T98 that was in the truck when the picture was taken... as I think the new motor is a bit lighter, I took out every other front leaf spring (stock straight axle), and added poly liner.

I'm thinking It may wash out to sit maybe an inch lower in front.

As you can see the rear was already considerably elevated. I would like to bring the rear down at least 3 inches, but also want to be able to take it another inch or so down, if the front is lower than I think it will be.

I'm thinking of going with:
(a) Adjustable front hanger on rear springs
(b) Extended y hanger shackle on rear mount (thought depending on this thread, I may decide against this step
(c) Adding poly liner

My question is this.... My rear spring packs have 9 leafs in them, I've disassembled them and they do not appear to be flattened or badly worn.

I plan to use my truck as a truck (although pretty light duty)... the biggest job will be something 20-30 bags of mulch once a year.

I'm contemplating taking a few leaves out to (a) soften ride and (b) make sure my adjustable hanger will let me get a total of 4-5 inches of drop (from where the truck started).... So how many springs can I take out, without hindering my ability to use the truck the way I want to?

 

Probably going to be trial and error. I have made up spring packs for my rock crawlers. I had to just try it out and adjust accordingly.

My Tacoma has notoriously soft rear springs. Gives a great ride but I can't carry jack without being on the bump stops. Put in a Firestone Air Bag Kit. Best of both worlds. Maybe you could do the same?

 

I'd recommend a progressive rate single leaf.
Interesting info here:
https://www.springworks.com/faq.html#leafq4

 

Ford had an optional progressive leaf spring from factory.

Its a 4 leaf spring up until the load reaches the 3 flat springs.

This gives a soft ride up until you load it then you get the benefit of a stiffer spring.

DinnerHill SpeedShop: Leaf springs, Rear, cleaning

So removing 2-3 is now problem at all

 

I wouldn't recommend removing leaves. I bought Posie's Dual Flex for front and their Super Sliders for the rear.

 

Sorry to dig up an old thread (3 months isn't *that* old, right?)... I was just looking at that Posie's combo today. Looks pretty slick and reasonably priced. What are your thoughts on how it rides?