Need help on a couple of projects, please.

[OleSenna]

Howdy, folks. I finally have a little time off and space to work in, so I'm thinking about a couple of small projects for my '72 K5.



Project #1: I want to remove the lift kit and drop the truck to at least stock height. I'm starting with a Skyjacker 2.5" all spring lift with Pro Comp shocks. No blocks in rear, new springs used from Skyjacker. Polyurethane shackle bushings in frame and leaf springs. Will not be replacing wheels or tires.



I'm a newbie at this, so I'm asking for some veteran's troubleshooting tips and advice. What issues should I be looking for? Is this just an unbolt/replace/bolt up procedure? Am I going to be removing a leaf or otherwise messing with the leaf springs at all? What part of the assembly actually determines the height adjustment? I did not install the lift kit myself and do not have any "spare" parts. Am I going to be missing any parts from the stock setup?

This is strictly for street use, in fact, it's my daily driver. As far as replacement shocks go, what types/brands/specs have people been happy with?

Project #2: Replace weatherstripping around both doors. Would like to purchase good stuff from a board member. Any suggestions or installation tips?

Thanks in advance for your input.

[vtblazer]

Remove the Skykacker 2.5" all spring lift & replace with stock spring packs, the lift is achieved with the springs.

You might be able to reuse the shocks though.

A 2.5" lift is pretty minor, why the need to remove it?

[OleSenna]

Originally Posted by vtblazer

Remove the Skykacker 2.5" all spring lift & replace with stock spring packs, the lift is achieved with the springs.

You might be able to reuse the shocks though.

A 2.5" lift is pretty minor, why the need to remove it?

Any lowering will make the girlfriend happier in terms of getting in and out of the truck. Plus, I'm thinking the wheels/tires will fit the wells a little better. It's kind of awkward-looking right now, but I can't afford to switch out the rubber at the moment.

So, are you saying I will need to purchase an entirely new set of leaf springs? Is there any way to use the existing ones? And will the stock setup use new mounting brackets or mounting points?

Is there a board vendor who has these in stock? I'm trying to show a little board love here, ya know.

Also, wondering whether anyone has purchased weatherstripping from a board member they can recommend. LMC seems kinda pricey.

Thanks, VT.

[67Steven]

You will need new springs, no way around it. Or good used ones.

Maybe someone would do a swap with you, someone who wants a mild lift.

ETA: Your existing hardware should work fine for the swap, just inspect the bolts for wear.

[OleSenna]

The swap option sounds good to me. Anybody reading this who is interested, let me know.

Also, how about the weatherstripping? I'm thinking that tab section at the top corners of the windshield will likely have rust issues. Is there any secret to cleaning and prepping that area before putting in the new weatherstripping?

And it seems like, severeal months ago, somebody on the board told me about a vendor from whom they bought their weatherstripping. Any contact suggestions will be appreciated.

Thanks again!

[hgs_notes]

Just about all of the venders that sell body parts for these trucks have the weatherstripping. It likely all comes from the same manufacturer. Just shop for price with shipping and any of the vendors here will treat you right.

I would be interested in the lift leafs you have, but they would be to replace worn out springs on my jimmy. Not good for trade, just scrap. If there are any junkyards in your area that have any old 4x4's, you can find springs there. You can also search the parts board for frames and chassis sales, they may have the springs and might sell them separately.