Leaf Spring Help

[72stepside4WD]

What do you use for replacement springs??? I am looking to replace the original worn-out leaf springs (front & rear) on a 72 SWB 4x4. I am thinking about the Skyjacker softride 2.5" lift springs. Has anyone used this product? Is it a straight swap out, or will I need to make modifications? Any other recommendations for an easy replacement? Thanks!

[72lb4x4]

I'll ride on your coattails for a while here. Similar question but mine's an LWB (K10)... It currently has a about a 2in block and shackle lift (ack!).

[Yukon Jack]

Swapping in 2.5" springs will be very straight forward. About the only thing to worry about will be possibly having a bolt or two seized. When I pulled off my K5's old lift springs for new ones, I had to cut the front leaf spring bolts on the front of the springs as they were seized to the inner metal sleave. I used a cut-off wheel and carefully cut the bolts between the spring and the hanger mount.

As you swap out the springs, it would be wise to get replacement bushings for the front spring's rear hanger at the frame location and the bushing for the rear hanger too.

I got all greasable bolt/bushings from OffRoad Design when I did my lift on my K20 and K5.

With that minor lift you shouldn't need to do any steering corrections, other than maybe having to adjust the drag link a touch to get full steering left and right.

Brake lines should be fine as should your driveshafts.

[Stocker]

Several years ago I swapped out my sagging front springs for Skyjacker Sorftride 2.5" springs. I'm no mechanic -- I only do light repairs/maintenance in my carport -- but it wasn't bad at all. The only thing I struggled with was the front spring bushing inserts were just a wee bit too long to fit inside the hangers, so I had to grind a bit off them. Other than that, no issues and they are still great. Quality is excellent (including u-bolts etc.). They came with red poly bushings, and they have never squeaked.

The kit I bought came with aluminum rear blocks but I never installed them. I have rear add-a-leafs and the truck is nearly level, with a very slight nose-up attitude. I tell myself it's okay because it's a bit like a CORR truck.

Oh, one more thing. Brake lines & steering hardware were all okay, but I needed longer shocks. Turns out the stock rear shocks are perfect on the front of a 2.5" lifted truck! I have the KYB part number around here somewhere if you want it.

[72stepside4WD]

Thanks for the feedback Y.J. & Stocker. Stocker, would you mind posting a side-shot of your truck so I could see the stance?

[Stocker]

Wish I could -- but I haven't been able to figure out how. My avatar is there because my daughter did it for me when she lived with us. Sorry...