Can I use Add-A-Leafs?
Thread Starter
|
Senior User
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 172
Likes: 0
Can I use Add-A-Leafs?
I am going to order some add-a-leafs for my truck today. I just want to make sure that I can use them before I do. The stock springs on my truck (1977.5 lowboy F250) have the factory add-a-leafs (if thats what you would call a stock leaf, its a single leaf on the bottom that isnt clamped into the rest anyway) on the back. Can I put another add-a-leaf under this stock leaf? I don't see why not but figured I should check before I spend money on something I cant use!
Thanks
Thanks
Post Fiend
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 6,948
Likes: 44
That is an overload, and not an AAL. You will be installing the AAL above this flat overload. If you try to install the AAl below the entire pack the AAL will never bend the overload and you will not get any lift.
Your instructions will indicate how and where you need to install the new leaf.
Also make sure you order a new alignment (center bolt) for each spring pack. You will not be able to use the old one. The old one will be too short, and will probably be destroyed when you remove it.
You will also want to makes sure you have enough thread on the u-bolts to accomodate the extra spring thickness.
Your instructions will indicate how and where you need to install the new leaf.
Also make sure you order a new alignment (center bolt) for each spring pack. You will not be able to use the old one. The old one will be too short, and will probably be destroyed when you remove it.
You will also want to makes sure you have enough thread on the u-bolts to accomodate the extra spring thickness.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 6,948
Likes: 44
Originally Posted by 68-F250-4x4
(1977.5 lowboy F250) have the factory add-a-leafs (if thats what you would call a stock leaf, its a single leaf on the bottom that isnt clamped into the rest anyway)
Thanks
Thanks
Guess I misunderstood that last part. Typically the leaf that is not attached is not part of the main pack is the flat overload.
Regardless, if you already have an AAL that adds arch to your pack, then adding another AAL, that has the same arch will not provide additional lift.
In other words if you have a 2 inch AAL, and add another 2 inches, you will not gain any lift.
If you have the same 2 inch AAL and adda 4 inch, then you need to replace the first one with the AAL that provides the greatest lift, otherwise you will start to really affect the ride. AAL's make for a pretty stiff pack, and adding more leafs with that much tension will really make for a rough ride.
Have you considered a shackle flip, and block elimination back there?
Ride remains unchanged, and you will benifit from better axle control since the block can be eliminated. Not a bad mod.
Thread Starter
|
Senior User
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 172
Likes: 0
What is all involved in a shackle flip? I put addaleafs in the front of my truck, and it sits a bit higher in the front then the back now, so I just want to level it back out. Eliminating the rear blocks and doing a shackle flip gives how much more lift? The add a leafs in the rear are the ones that come from factory (not sure if add a leaf is the right word). If you look at any sites that sell factory spring they list these springs as '4+1 leaf', which means 4 main leafs then this 5th one which I am calling an 'addaleaf'. It wasnt actually added in it came like this from factory. So Would putting a 2" lift add a leaf in the rear work for this then?
The ride Im not too concerned about. I use the truck to haul water push snow etc. Not a long driver or anything.
Anyways thanks for the help so far and please explain a little more on the shackle flip if you can!
The ride Im not too concerned about. I use the truck to haul water push snow etc. Not a long driver or anything.
Anyways thanks for the help so far and please explain a little more on the shackle flip if you can!
Post Fiend
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 6,948
Likes: 44
I have not touched a factory rear leaf spring under one of these trucks in quite a while, so I will have to take your word for it with regards to the small AAL.
I usually rip out the stock leafs and install an aftermarket set. I like to use long 64 inch springs from later model trucks. They ride much better and offer lots of flex. Migh be quite a bit more work than you are after.
I will include a link for a shackle flip kit so you can see how it works.
You can also PM me and I will send you some pics of a stock set-up. This utilizes stock components, and can be done with just a little time and a few bucks in hardware.
http://www.sky-manufacturing.com/
Part # FORD-RFK-001 is the part number you are looking for. If you read the testimony on the site, you will find installation instructions and it should explain very well.
Agin I can share additional pics if you are interested. My biggest concern would be buying AAL's and not being able to realize any lift. That would make me a little nervous you know?
I usually rip out the stock leafs and install an aftermarket set. I like to use long 64 inch springs from later model trucks. They ride much better and offer lots of flex. Migh be quite a bit more work than you are after.
I will include a link for a shackle flip kit so you can see how it works.
You can also PM me and I will send you some pics of a stock set-up. This utilizes stock components, and can be done with just a little time and a few bucks in hardware.
http://www.sky-manufacturing.com/
Part # FORD-RFK-001 is the part number you are looking for. If you read the testimony on the site, you will find installation instructions and it should explain very well.
Agin I can share additional pics if you are interested. My biggest concern would be buying AAL's and not being able to realize any lift. That would make me a little nervous you know?
Freshman User
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 32
Likes: 0
From: Peace River, Alberta
I'm new to this suspension stuff. Most every truck i've owned has been lifted, but i've never done it myself, and would like to learn some theory. Obviously, this SKY kit is a great way to get height out of the back, but what do people do for the front of thier trucks?
Trending Topics
Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 6,628
Likes: 345
From: Albuquerque
You might consider air bags instead. They can be adjusted for the load from the cab and bled off when you don't need them.
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalytic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath
Verdad Gallardo
Top 10 Most Expensive Ford Trucks Ever Sold on Bring a Trailer
Joe Kucinski
2027 Ford Super Duty Buyer's Guide (Every Model, Engine, & Package)
Brett Foote
Top 10 Ford Truck Tragedies
Joe Kucinski
AEV FXL Super Duty - the Super Duty Raptor Ford Doesn't Make
Brett Foote
Lobo Vs Lobo: Proof the F-150 Lobo Should Be Even Lower!
Michael S. Palmer
Ford's 2001 Explorer Sportsman Concept Looks For a New Home
Verdad Gallardo
10 Best Ford Truck Engines We Miss the Most!
Joe Kucinski
2026 Shelby F-150 Off-Road: Better Than a Raptor R?
Brett Foote
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
archeat2
1980 - 1986 Bullnose F100, F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks
4
Jan 10, 2012 11:34 AM
460_Maniac
Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Tires, & Wheels
5
Apr 26, 2006 12:05 PM