Well this didn't get much attention in the chasis-axle forumn... odd, so i'll try here. In the search for a somewhat smoother ride, i found some threads here about the reverse shackle kit but was bummed to find out its only for solid axles. So is it worth it swapping axles to install the reverse shackle kit and if so where's the best place to get a solid axle from (internet or junk yard)? I was planning on lifting my truck 2-3" anyways. 1997 F250 PSD 4x4 btw

 

If you're serious about off-roading, the solid axle swap is the way to go. Be prepared, it's not gouing to be cheap. You can try junk yards, but you may want to consider a custom axle from Dynatrac.

Max

 

thanks. looks like i'll start storing my change in a penny jar now and see what comes first, the money to do this swap or just find a f350 exactly like my truck.

 

This is just for my own knowledge so I apologize in advance for asking such a dumb question, but what kind of setup does the 97 model have if not soild axle? TTB? Sorry again, but thanks for edumacatin' me

Bob

 

Yep, TTB. In 99' ford started putting solid front axles under all superdutys, before then the 250's had TTBs. Not a dumb question at all, personally I think it was dumb of Ford to put anything but a solid front axle in a 4X4. At least they're doing it right now...

Max

 

You know I have seen a few of the independant front axles that guys have taken and welded them up making of sorts a square tubing type of solid axle out of them by b oxing them in.

Heck, if you can weld much at all, you could do this easy enough and then shackle the axle as it should be. I have finished the reverse shackle on my 95 F350 that I built the shackle kit myself, but I weld better than most. Really was not that bad a job and actually quite fun. I think the welding up the axle like what you have would be easy and fun as well. Might be something you would be interesting in...

 

Call up the guys at OFF ROAD UNLIMITED. They sell a shackle reversal kit.
Also if your looking for a better ride there are a few airbag kits out there.
Currently thinking about a shackle reversal for my f350 and using f250springs should net about 2-3 in of lift and a better ride.

 

I had not reall thouht about welding the 2 axles togather but it make sense and cheaper than swapping out to a straight axle
do you have any pics you can send me of doing that