Leaf Spring Bushing Sleeve Length

[CJM72]

Hi Guys. Getting ready to install Tuff Country EZ ride front leaf springs on my 1972 K5 Blazer. It came with poly bushings and sleeves for the springs and I ordered a set of the thinner shackle bushings from Energy Suspension. Looking at the parts I noticed that the Energy bushing sleeves are around 3.5" long and the bushing sleeves from Tuff Country are 3.7". Is there a proper length for these? Should I cut down the longer sleeves to match the 3.5" long versions? I don't want the shackles to be splayed out or uneven bushing wear. How tight should the sleeve be on the front hanger? Thanks!

[Stocker]

FWIW, several years ago I bought 2.5" Skyjacker Softride front springs for my K20. The bushing sleeves were too long, just as you described (though I did not measure them).

I ground them down until they were a tight fit and I've never had any problem with them.

[CJM72]

Thanks Stocker! I guess my plan is to grind the sleeve for the front hanger to fit and then I'll make the two shackle sleeves match to keep the shackle plates even.

[Stocker]

Yeah, I briefly tried to spread the front hangers and they were having none of it! Very stiff rigid buggers.

Pretty sure I did not grind the rear sleeves. Besides being very hard steel, they were not enough longer to make any difference back there. But if you have the patience, it wouldn't hurt to grind 'em down to match the fronts.