Cutting springs????

[AcampoDave]

I say don't do it. If you cut them there is no way to secure the top of the spring to the frame. And you said you want to haul loads with it...seems risky to me, if something shifted sideways and caused the frame to slide off of the spring top you'd be looking at some expensive damage to a lot of parts that are getting harder and more expensive to find. Not to mention your personal safety. Get or make some axle blocks. Vedors here can hook you up with blocks and U bolts for a very reasonable price. Blocks will eliminate the need for geometry changes with regard to shocks and the panhard bar. 1.5 inches is very do-able with a reasonable tire profile. This truck is pictured on these 1" blocks and if you look at the block you'll see where I later added another 3/8" by making some "shims" to go with the block.