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Originally Posted by mtchevytruck
1986swb Thanks for the pics. Looks like you do some nice work.
Any major differences in brand/ quality of the shackles I should look at? Cruising the forums I've seen quite a few different ones, mostly extra holes drilled for additional adjustment options and other holes drilled for weight/looks.
I plan on pulling the bed for either install. My tanks need dropped and removed for cleaning andfuel sending unit work. My next tread hunt will be on prepping and painting the frame and underside of bed, etc.
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I purchased my shackles from LMC mainly because they used black rubber bushings instead of polyurethane. I chose rubber over polyurethane mainly to avoid any squeeking issues (and I did not want to constantly lubricate the bushing). There are urethane and polygraphite bushings which don't squeek and provide less deflection than rubber. Keep in mind, the deflection is not a big deal (to me). With my upgraded swaybars and shocks, the truck's body roll is minimal without sacrificing ride quality. On a different note, I changed most of my suspension parts using black rubber, except for my swaybar bushings where I used urethane (does not squeek) from Moog. You can go with polyurethane bushings as well (they do not squeek as well) but cost a little more. Check out PST for the poly bushings and suspension items:
http://www.p-s-t.com/suspension.aspx
Some of the companies offering drop suspension kits include Classic Parts of America (great OEM, NOS, replacement items, and customer service), DJM, McGaughys, to name a few reputable choices.
And as Baclay 9 noted, most of the shackles are adjustable 1" or 2" so you have a choice when mounting them.
I did a 2/5" front spindle drop and a 4" rear hanger & shackle drop. Very mild drop but I can still carry a load in the truck. Before you do any suspension modifications, I suggest you figure out, if you haven't already done so, exactly what your objectives are for the truck (improve handling, looks, hauler, want to be unique, etc.). This way you'll spend less time, money and headaches on parts and changes. Hindsight is always 20/20.
Click on the link below my signature line to redirect you to additional pics of my suspension.