Checking factory shims before installing lift kit??
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Joined: Dec 2004
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Checking factory shims before installing lift kit??
Hi,
I'm new to the forum and have my first question. I'm looking to install a Skyjacker lift kit on my 1995 2WD Ford F150 Supercab (1-1/2" - 2" kit) and the website I'm looking at tells me that I need near zero degree factory shims? Website says "1.5-2" kit includes front coils and rear add-a-leafs. Your vehicle must have near zero degree factory shims to achieve for proper alignment." Question is how do I check my vehicle to see if I have this before I purchase the kit??
Thanks for your help.
I'm new to the forum and have my first question. I'm looking to install a Skyjacker lift kit on my 1995 2WD Ford F150 Supercab (1-1/2" - 2" kit) and the website I'm looking at tells me that I need near zero degree factory shims? Website says "1.5-2" kit includes front coils and rear add-a-leafs. Your vehicle must have near zero degree factory shims to achieve for proper alignment." Question is how do I check my vehicle to see if I have this before I purchase the kit??
Thanks for your help.
Posting Guru
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,008
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From: Annapolis,MD.
The shims come in different sizes,even from factory.By installing 0 degree your only helping the alignment tech to determine what size and which direction to go.Shims are available from 0-3 degree.After-market shims are adjustable(factory is'nt).I would install the kit and get it aligned asap.The guys that usually sell the kits don't do alignments.But some techs do install kits.
Elder User
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 506
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From: Edwards Air Force Base
The shims should have a number stamped on top that you have installed now. I think mine were .45 when I started. I ended up putting adjustable ones in and used the whole 2.5 to correct my camber after the lift.
I don't know if the alignment guy was being lazy or what but he said that I should not have used the adjustable shims since my camber was dead on but he couldn't adjust my caster because of the new shims I was using. He said if I had left the factory shims in, he could have fixed the caster.
Later down the road, I will likely get some factory 2.5 shims then take it to a different shop and let them do it. That way, my camber should still be good yet it will be a factory setup so they can do whatever else is needed.
Lee
I don't know if the alignment guy was being lazy or what but he said that I should not have used the adjustable shims since my camber was dead on but he couldn't adjust my caster because of the new shims I was using. He said if I had left the factory shims in, he could have fixed the caster.
Later down the road, I will likely get some factory 2.5 shims then take it to a different shop and let them do it. That way, my camber should still be good yet it will be a factory setup so they can do whatever else is needed.
Lee
Posting Guru
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,008
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From: Annapolis,MD.
Lee,I think he was either lazy or not that informed.On a 2wd the sleeve adjusts both camber and caster at the same time.On a 4wd it does camber only(there are some that will do both,though not to many people use them,but thats another story).There are adjustable radius arm bushings available for caster though.I assume you camber was good "AFTER" you installed the 2 1/2's ?
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