proper way to fix previous block lift

[ToddJerad]

I have a shudder problem taking off in first gear and read some previous posts about how the lift can cause this problem. I looked under the EB and noticed that the bronco was on 3" blocks on the axel and the stackable springs which have a similar stackable look to leaf springs but are not (they may be stock, not sure what the eb back springs came with. So total it is raised like 5" off the axel. I am assuming that my problem starts here.

My question is: What is the proper way of fixing this problem and installing a better system. I don't want to spend more than 4 or 5 hundred if possible and will probably replace the springs and boxes with the 3" leaf system if possible. I am not sure what other parts I should replace as well. Also do I need to do anything to the front of the car as well. I have rancho shocks as well if that matters. Thank you

 

[S_bolt19]

If you have 3" blocks, that is your axle wrap problem that I was telling you about. Get rid of those and get a new set of leaf springs without the blocks. First thing you really should do though is measure the height of the rig and find out how much lift you have. To do this, measure from the top of the axle tube to the bottom of the frame and subtract 7". That would give you the amount of lift you have in the rear. Then for the front, do the same thing but subtract 7.5" and that will give you the amount of lift you have in front. Find out what you are at and then we can begin to get you straightened out and pointed in the right direction of what you should do.

 

[ToddJerad]

I just did the measuring and the back is about 3.5" lift and the front is at about 3". The blocks are only about 2.5" though and it has rancho shocks at the corners. I would like to keep the height similar to what it is now since tires fit good and brake lines don't seem to be extended and neither is the driveshaft? I am going to be using it for mostly a Pacific Coast Highway and street driving EB. What can I do to achieve the look and feel I want, get rid of the shutter, and try and keep it under 500 if possible? Thanks again.

 

[Broncobill78]

S blolt is right, the root of the problem is with the blocks between the spring pad & the spring. The solution is really, really simple. You need a set of rearched leafs. I dunno what a set for yours runs but chances are they'll be less the $500 but even if they aren't it's not like there are any other option. Hopefully you do it before the springpads start to round, once that happens your wallet is in for a world of hurt unless you forgot to mention that you're a really good fabricator. If the blocks are 2.5" then you'll want to look for a set of springs with a 2"-3" lift. Several companies offer them. As an alternative there are usually plenty of big-rig & spring shops that fabricate custom springs all the time, just bring it to one of them and tell them you want a set or leafs that will allow you to remove the blocks & maintain the same ride & height. If your current springpack is in good shape they may well be able to re-arch it instead of fabbing a whole new one or maybe re-arch it a bit & add an additional leaf. Lots of options. I'd grab the local phonebook and start making calls or checking with the local 4x4 shops because they should know who in the area does that sort of work.

Replacing the springs should get rid of the shudder caused by the axle-wrap and still allow you to retain your current tires, shocks, brake lines, etc. The basic problem is that a previous owner took the cheap & easy road when he lifted it, now that the springs are getting a little worn it's turning out to not be so cheap & easy. Putting in a new set of properly arched springs will solve the problem without causing any complications or requiring you to add or replace any other parts.