Just a quick question, are shackles really better than blocks for adding some height to your rear leafs?

 

Yes

 

I was told if you dont really offroad it much, just wanna lift for the looks and keep a decent ride to go blocks. Otherwise no


correct me if im wrong though

 

Shackles

 

A can of worms has just been opened.

 

seriously? blocks on a stock leaf gets a better ride? lol

 

shackles!!!!

 

I dont recall saying the ride would be better. More so would be the same as you aren't messing with the springs.

If im wrong tell me why

 

you said a good ride. you are adding force to the middle of your leaf causing added stress which in turn WILL turn you leaf into an "s" shape. add a block you leafs will not provide a good ride.

 

From my experience if you want about an inch to an inch and a half you can go with a block. It will be a bit harder of a ride and over time will arch your leaves in the opposing direction. Shackles will only work if they are done correctly..some off brand "universal" shackle will kill your springs as well. They both have goods and bads.

Blocks goods
cheap height
easy easy installation
can be found at any parts store
Block bads
cause alot of leverage on the axle
will murder your springs over time
a block over an inch tall will result in serious axle wrap
harsh ride
did I mention kill your springs?

Good shackles
good way to boost height
great addition to later lift
relatively cheap
most companies have a set
many choices out there
Shackle bads
can bend/snap leaf spring ends
can axle cause less flex due to bad angles
can be stubborn to install due to corroded bolts

Picture examples
Busted block causing some slight issues....


"universal shackle causing havoc
"

Sorry for the rant here, just have nothing else to do at this hour.

 

thanks, good to know!

 

Not to be a pest here but Why do blocks kill your springs? or change ride quality? we are all running spring over so the ride doesn't stiffen or soften with the addition of blocks; its virtually the same nothing has been changed on the spring or suspension the geometry remains stock, no extra pressure is added any where on the spring since the block is suppose to be the same size as the perch. I know blocks cause axle wrap and that can be a causes of spring damage but every day driving on blocks shouldn't kill springs. Shackles on the other hand change spring geometry, ride quality, and if your springs are already worn will put them 6 feet under...but the pro's of good shackles more than out weigh the cons, again correct me if I'm wrong but blocks keep a stock suspension quality and should change nothing but handling and height. But truthfully I would go with shackles they look better than a metal 2x4 between the springs and axle.
(sorry for being argumentative but it doesnt make sence to me... blocks stiffening leaf suspension? how? If Im being ignorant PLEASE shine light on my thick head)

 

shackles all day long. just say no to blocks

 

Great pics and insight on what to do and not to do.

 

Keep in mind, a 1" longer shackle give you 1/2" of lift, so for a 1 1/2" lift you will need 3" longer shackle than you have now. A 1" block give you 1" of lift.

Granted blocks (over 1 1/2") will seriously change the torgue angles (the ol "S" curve problem) on the springs and trash them. Too long of a shackle goes to lateral movement, yet another can of worms.

IMO - if you want a 1" lift a 1" block is better than a 2" (longer) shackle - after that think new springs/AAL etc.