76 F150 4X4. Has, what I have been told by several, factory blocks in rear. My Stanley tape measure shows 3 1/2 inches between bottom of spring and top of axel. Now, realizing this is most likely a painfully obvious question, but does that mean my truck is 3 1/2 inches taller at the rear axel than a level, factory truck without blocks? Did Ford use different leaf springs (ie shorter) when using the blocks?

Also, I'm looking at a Skyjacker lift kit. I've heard good things, and impressed enough with my research on the company, and they seem to know what they are doing on mid-70's Fords, among other trucks. In talking with the rep, he said their 2 inch system uses new springs and no blocks, and their 4 inch system uses new springs and factory blocks. I'm leaning towards the 2 inch system, as I won't be doing major off-roading, but want additional clearance (lift coupled with 33X12.50s will look nice, be useful, won't be too much, and works for me, in theory) for occasional trips into the rough and snow. My question is, if I get a 2 inch lift, based on above measurements, will it lower my rear end by 1 1/2 inches? I believe it will raise my front end a little, which is just fine (I don't care for the nose-heavy forward tilt it now has). Is this correct? The other draw of the 2 inch system is that I won't need to get the dropped Pitman arm, which, although I'm sure is a fine-quality component, it still seems to me if Ford wanted a Pitman arm with a big bend cast into it, they would have done it. Call me a purist..... I wonder, however, if lifting a little without changing the Pitman arm would be more harmful than lifting more (negligable price difference) and putting in the dropped Pitman arm.

Now, the really big question. Would it be better just to go with a 4 inch lift to begin with? Any and all advice, comments, opinions, and riducule is welcome, as I only want to do this once, and do it right. I still have a lifter tick upon driving around for a while to remedy, so this lift issue is not an immediate project I am undertaking. I'm simply, based on experience and outside advice, approaching building this truck as I approached building my house--do it once, do it right, and you'll enjoy it forever. Sure, it means a little more time and planning, but it's all well worth it.

Thanks in advance.

Matt

 

Now I don't know about the different spring packages in the back and how they adjust height, but I can tell you to go with the 4" lift. If you get the 2" you'll just be dissappointed.

The Law

 

Hey Law,What do you mean when you say "If you get the 2" you'll just be dissappointed" do you mean you cant tell the difference or that it dosnt work good?

I was wanting to get a 2" from Skyjacker so i can get abit more Articulation without having the cost of a 4" lift wouldnt it work for that?

 

I would go with the 4" lift. I have a 71 f100 4x4 and I was in the same situation as you. So I bought the 4" lift and run 33x12.50x15 tires and it is perfect. I did away with the rear blocks and did a shackle flip/much stiffer ride but no blocks to slip out. Good luck Mr.B.

 

the blocks are factory from ford go with the 4inch you will be happier i put a four inch skyjacker on my f 250 and i love it and its not a ruff ride spend the extra buck its worth it to be happy bad 78 f 250

 

Sorry I took so long to get back. I have heard that the 2" lift is really stiff and uncomfortable. Also, 2" is hardly noticable, and not worth the time and money when for not a whole lot more you can get a 4" kit.

The Law

 

Yeah, in my thinking, a 2" lift is really not worth the money, it doesnt make a big difference. I'm extremely happy with my 4" and 32s. sits perfectly. With a two inch lift, unless you are a novice Ford man you will not even notice that it is lifted.




Primary rig is:
95' F-150 EB 300/6 5 spd with 4" Superlift, MSD, Ram Air, Gibson Exhaust, 32" BFG Muds
NEW PICS IN MY GALLERY!! :-)


Then theres:
88' F-250 Superduty 351 + c6
92' Thunderbird 3.8L V-6 FOR SALE!
95' Mercury Cougar 4.6L V-8
80' E-350 300/6 and a
3 spd column shifter baby.

The newest addition to the Ford family is a 99' Mustang GT 4.6L