I've seen alot of mixed messages regarding the pro's & cons of having the shackles drop off of the rear of the leaf springs up front. Seems like the majority of trucks were built like this.

On the other hand, the majority of jeeps, & cruisers, & a few others were not.

I am building a daily driver budget, budget, budget minded 4x4 conversion from a 63 2wd 3/4 ton ford. I already have leafs up front, & the tools to do welding, & light fab work. I would love to simply install perches in the correct spots to match my springs, & deal with the steering & be done. I am using components from 77-79 f-250's. Rear end is done already. Div. t-case awaits install. A HP 60 or 44 is next on the list.


I am by no means building a crawler. I will use the truck as transportation, & ideally to push snow in the winter as well.

btw, not interested in parking this truck or finding a frame to do a body swap, but thanks. Just interested in the real pros & cons of shackles as it relates to heavy old trucks.

 

i have a 94 f350 with the shackle at the front, and i can tell you that if i had a welder in my garage, i would have made a reversal setup years ago. i don't drive the truck that much, so i can't justify buying one of the kits for their prices. with the shackle in the front, your suspension fights bumps instead of soaking them up. if i were in your position, i would put the shackle at the rear, especially if the truck will be driven on road a lot