shackle flip kit - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

71biggreenk10 · 12-28-2009, 02:21 AM

has anyone tried a shackle flip kit on their trucks? When I bought my truck a few years back, the previous owner used blocks to lift the rear of the truck, and used, what looks like, helwig leaf spring helpers, both in front of and behind the axle, on the leaf springs. I would like to remove all this, and use a shackle flip kit and a new set of 2 inch lift soft ride springs. My goal is two things, first to remove the blocks, to help prevent axle wrap, and secondly to soften the ride of the truck. any advice?

http://www.offroaddesign.com/catalog/shacklekit.htm

jcnalley · 12-28-2009, 02:29 AM

I am not using a shackle flip, but am considering one myself. From what I have read on here the flip will meet your goals. The flip with 2" springs will give you about a 6" lift. Hope this helps,maybe someone more knowledgeable will chime in.

71biggreenk10 · 12-28-2009, 02:54 AM

I am hoping for 6 inches of lift, as I think that is what is on there now. I don't think I would be able to fit the 37" tires without at least 6 inches of lift. Like I said before, I purchased the truck with the lift already on it, does anyone have any ideas on how to measure what lift I have? I don't know what the stock ride height would be with stock tires, I have taller than stock tires, so math would be involved there too.

b454rat · 12-28-2009, 09:04 AM

I have one on my truck now, and did one on my crew. I have the ORD 2.5" version with 4" springs. Pics are in my sig.

The crew has homemade flip, works just as good as the ORD just not as bling.

84 400 · 12-28-2009, 11:42 AM

I got mine from DIY4X. Good quality and am so far pretty happy with it. ides good also. I have never owned a truck with blocks so I can't compare. I have heard different things from different people and alot of it has to do with how the truck is used and how hard the driver uses it. Kerts set up is a little different then ORD's in that it uses flat stock shackles instead of reusing the originals. I like this better because it is easier to "tune" your rear shackles. If you have any questions give them a call they have great customer service. Both are good kits tho!

here is a link to DIY4X
http://diy4x.com/cart/index.php?rout...product_id=112

Oilbrnr · 12-31-2009, 03:06 PM

I did the ORD flip, and then later new 2" TC springs in the rear of my K5. The flip kits will pivot the pinion up somewhat. Enough in my case to require the use of a CV.

You might want to call Tuff Country and ask them what the ride difference would be like between the 2" and 6" packs. No use in doing the flip if the ride is ok.

71biggreenk10 · 12-31-2009, 03:15 PM

I did some more research after posting that question. and asked a few other websites about how much of a PITA it is to remove the rivit's. I think I'm gonna go with the 6" springs, rather than the shackle flip kit. Thank you for all your inputs. From Tuff Country, they have the lowest spring rates around, but the 6" kit will still ride "rougher" than a 2" simply due to the arch of the springs, however as compared to my setup, it will ride MUCH better.

DirtyLarry · 12-31-2009, 05:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 71biggreenk10

I did some more research after posting that question. and asked a few other websites about how much of a PITA it is to remove the rivit's. I think I'm gonna go with the 6" springs, rather than the shackle flip kit. Thank you for all your inputs. From Tuff Country, they have the lowest spring rates around, but the 6" kit will still ride "rougher" than a 2" simply due to the arch of the springs, however as compared to my setup, it will ride MUCH better.

I think you will probably regret going with 6” springs, as they ride terrible. Go with the shackle flip! Removing the rivets on the old rear spring hangers are not difficult at all. Just use a side grinder and cut a line down the center of the rivet head then beat the head halves off with an air hammer and push the rivet out the other side. It is a 10 minute job done this way.

I also used 56” rear springs and ORD’s longer HD shackle. The truck rides like a dream and flexes like mad.

MTCK · 12-31-2009, 06:29 PM

Larry hit the nail on the head. Do the shackle flip. Removing the rivets isn't as bad as you would think. I didn't have an air chisel but instead ground the head completely off and drove them out with a punch and a hammer. I had 8" springs on the front and 4" on the rear with the ORD flip on my 78 blazer. The difference in flex (with the sway bar disconnected even) is HUGE and the ride will be punishing with those large arch springs. Just my $.02. If you can afford it get some of their greasable bushings and you will be happy you did. Good luck.

71biggreenk10 · 01-01-2010, 12:28 AM

Thank you for the pictures. I can see how doing it that way would make life alot easier. I do want a better ride than I have now, and I think if it is as easy as it looks, that it might be a better idea to just do the shackle flip kit, with 2" leafs. Thanks alot guys. I am still in Iraq, and have been putting together a parts and wish list for work to do when I get back, so most of the research I was doing, didn't have good, if any, pictures.

Also, how did you use the 56" springs? will they simply bolt up? did it move your axle back? is there anything else I might need to know about them, if I got them for my truck?

cobinder · 01-01-2010, 01:41 PM

ORD flip kit works sweeeet. Rivets aren't bad to remove. grind, torch or drill em, take ya an afternoon to do it.

71biggreenk10 · 01-06-2010, 11:45 AM

I also used 56” rear springs and ORD’s longer HD shackle. The truck rides like a dream and flexes like mad.

Dirty Larry....How are you able to use the 56" springs? Do they just bolt up? do they change the positioning of the rear axle? Is there anything else I might need to know if I went this route? Btw I purchased the Shackle Flip Kit.....

tomtuna1978 · 01-06-2010, 01:20 PM

shackle flip with 56in. springs is the way to go !!! i did this on my 79 short bed and couldnt be happier !!!! the truck rides soooo smooth and it flexes like they say ! MAD !!! lol ... Cut the rivets off like dirty larry showed and youll be fine ! i did mine in like an hour or so !i just got the stock spring out of a 3/4 ton for mine( they say the stock springs flex more and ride smoother ) the axle didnt move back and i didnt need to do anything with my driveshaft( of corse mine is only the 4in lift ) the shackle brackets are used on the opposite side and you need the 6in. shackles,and i had no vibrations at all ! good luck

Prerunner1982 · 01-06-2010, 04:47 PM

71BigGreen... on the 73-87 (91) models the 56" springs are bolt in as the frame has mounting holes for 52" and 56" as these were options.. Hopefully someone can give you an idea how to do it on yoru 71, but so far those who have mentioned using them in this thread are 73-87s...

yellow70GMC · 01-06-2010, 05:03 PM

The 56" springs will bolt up with no modifications. I will tell you that the pin is not in the exact center of the spring, it's offset. But in my case that was a good thing. When i did the shackle flip on my 1970 with the stock 52" springs, my axle got pushed forward about 2 inches, and i had to use the ORD 1" add-a-leaf blocks to move the axle back so it was centered in the wheel well. Might not be as bad on longbeds, but on my shortbed it was very apparent and i would definitely plan on getting the ORD add-a-leaf kit if you go with stock length springs. I switched to 56" springs and it alleviated the problem completely. Plus, with the stock length springs the shackle angle is terrible, the shackle will be straight up and down and it will take more energy to move it, and you'll have a rougher ride. If i were you i would order the shackle flip, and tuff country ez-ride 2" springs for a 73-87 truck. Call tuff country to verify the length of their springs. Hope that helps.

Prerunner1982 · 01-06-2010, 05:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by yellow70GMC

ORD 1" add-a-leaf blocks to

These are also referred to as Zero Rates...
http://www.offroaddesign.com/catalog/Zero%20Rates.htm

71biggreenk10 · 01-07-2010, 12:01 AM

When I ordered the shackle flip kit, I ordered the Zero Rate Add a Leaf with it. I am hoping to move the axle back a little, as right now, even with my lift the rear tires will contact the bed sides if I hit a decent sized bump. It is good to know that the 56" springs will simply bolt up though. I read that with the 56" springs that I should mount the shackle flip kit backwards? I know this was specifically written by a 73-87 pickup guy, did you have to do the same with your 1970? also, I read that I should use the longer 6" shackles with the 56" springs, but again that was for the newer model trucks? Thank you for all your help.

yellow70GMC · 01-08-2010, 04:26 PM

I didn't have to reverse the shackle hangers, but i'm pretty sure the 67-72 ones are symmetrical anyway. I would probably get the longer shackles from ORD if you have the $$$. I don't have them, but that's the next issue i'm looking to fix because my driver side shackle got bent.

12-28-2009, 02:21 AM	#1
71biggreenk10 406 SB 700R4 NP205 Twin Stick Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Lexington Park Maryland Posts: 43	shackle flip kit has anyone tried a shackle flip kit on their trucks? When I bought my truck a few years back, the previous owner used blocks to lift the rear of the truck, and used, what looks like, helwig leaf spring helpers, both in front of and behind the axle, on the leaf springs. I would like to remove all this, and use a shackle flip kit and a new set of 2 inch lift soft ride springs. My goal is two things, first to remove the blocks, to help prevent axle wrap, and secondly to soften the ride of the truck. any advice? http://www.offroaddesign.com/catalog/shacklekit.htm

12-28-2009, 02:29 AM	#2
jcnalley Registered User Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Rockingham,NC Posts: 31	Re: shackle flip kit I am not using a shackle flip, but am considering one myself. From what I have read on here the flip will meet your goals. The flip with 2" springs will give you about a 6" lift. Hope this helps,maybe someone more knowledgeable will chime in.

12-28-2009, 02:54 AM	#3
71biggreenk10 406 SB 700R4 NP205 Twin Stick Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Lexington Park Maryland Posts: 43	Re: shackle flip kit I am hoping for 6 inches of lift, as I think that is what is on there now. I don't think I would be able to fit the 37" tires without at least 6 inches of lift. Like I said before, I purchased the truck with the lift already on it, does anyone have any ideas on how to measure what lift I have? I don't know what the stock ride height would be with stock tires, I have taller than stock tires, so math would be involved there too.

12-28-2009, 09:04 AM	#4
b454rat Senior Member Join Date: May 2004 Location: Binghamton, NY Posts: 3,469	Re: shackle flip kit I have one on my truck now, and did one on my crew. I have the ORD 2.5" version with 4" springs. Pics are in my sig. The crew has homemade flip, works just as good as the ORD just not as bling. __________________ 2000 GMC CCSB 454/4L80 6” lift SAS 1999 Chevy CCSB 454/NV4500 4” SAS 1999 GMC Yukon 350/4L60 6" SAS

12-28-2009, 11:42 AM	#5
84 400 Sb 400 club Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: NH / MA Posts: 2,746	Re: shackle flip kit I got mine from DIY4X. Good quality and am so far pretty happy with it. ides good also. I have never owned a truck with blocks so I can't compare. I have heard different things from different people and alot of it has to do with how the truck is used and how hard the driver uses it. Kerts set up is a little different then ORD's in that it uses flat stock shackles instead of reusing the originals. I like this better because it is easier to "tune" your rear shackles. If you have any questions give them a call they have great customer service. Both are good kits tho! here is a link to DIY4X http://diy4x.com/cart/index.php?rout...product_id=112 __________________ 1984 chevy c10, built 400sb,.(SOLD) 77 K10 Project / daily driver "The Grinch" http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=318363 1956 Willys Wagon (327 chevy) Project (Now Buick 225) 1980 Corvette L-48 4 speed 1992 Mustang GT built 5.0 5 speed 1985 C10 LWB Sold 1982 K10 SWB plow truck Parted out 1986 D30 M1028 fire brush truck Parted out

12-31-2009, 03:06 PM	#6
Oilbrnr Registered User Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Scottsdale, AZ Posts: 390	Re: shackle flip kit I did the ORD flip, and then later new 2" TC springs in the rear of my K5. The flip kits will pivot the pinion up somewhat. Enough in my case to require the use of a CV. You might want to call Tuff Country and ask them what the ride difference would be like between the 2" and 6" packs. No use in doing the flip if the ride is ok. __________________ -Don- '66 C10 w/factory A/C '77 Cheyenne K5 350/465/205 '80 Custom Deluxe K20 350/465/205 '04 Denali XL '05 DMax CCLB 4x Have a Hickey Sidewinder Winch and need the owners/install manual? Send me a PM with your email address and I'll forward you a .pdf

12-31-2009, 03:15 PM	#7
71biggreenk10 406 SB 700R4 NP205 Twin Stick Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Lexington Park Maryland Posts: 43	Re: shackle flip kit I did some more research after posting that question. and asked a few other websites about how much of a PITA it is to remove the rivit's. I think I'm gonna go with the 6" springs, rather than the shackle flip kit. Thank you for all your inputs. From Tuff Country, they have the lowest spring rates around, but the 6" kit will still ride "rougher" than a 2" simply due to the arch of the springs, however as compared to my setup, it will ride MUCH better.

12-31-2009, 06:29 PM	#9
MTCK Registered User Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Fairbanks, AK Posts: 1,830	Re: shackle flip kit Larry hit the nail on the head. Do the shackle flip. Removing the rivets isn't as bad as you would think. I didn't have an air chisel but instead ground the head completely off and drove them out with a punch and a hammer. I had 8" springs on the front and 4" on the rear with the ORD flip on my 78 blazer. The difference in flex (with the sway bar disconnected even) is HUGE and the ride will be punishing with those large arch springs. Just my $.02. If you can afford it get some of their greasable bushings and you will be happy you did. Good luck. __________________ -Marcus 1991 V3500 L29 454 4L80E NP205 D60/14 Bolt 4.56's 1984 K30 292 TH400 NP205 D60/14 Bolt 4.56's flat bed 7'6" Meyer Plow 2022 Silverado 3500 L8T Project Daily Driver Project Heavy Hauler Project Plow Truck

01-01-2010, 12:28 AM	#10
71biggreenk10 406 SB 700R4 NP205 Twin Stick Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Lexington Park Maryland Posts: 43	Re: shackle flip kit Thank you for the pictures. I can see how doing it that way would make life alot easier. I do want a better ride than I have now, and I think if it is as easy as it looks, that it might be a better idea to just do the shackle flip kit, with 2" leafs. Thanks alot guys. I am still in Iraq, and have been putting together a parts and wish list for work to do when I get back, so most of the research I was doing, didn't have good, if any, pictures. Also, how did you use the 56" springs? will they simply bolt up? did it move your axle back? is there anything else I might need to know about them, if I got them for my truck? Last edited by 71biggreenk10; 01-01-2010 at 12:33 AM.

01-01-2010, 01:41 PM	#11
cobinder Everything is work in progress Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Denver Colorado Posts: 326	Re: shackle flip kit ORD flip kit works sweeeet. Rivets aren't bad to remove. grind, torch or drill em, take ya an afternoon to do it. __________________ Good luck with your truck! How much?! It's just an old truck part!! 49 International on a 80 GMC 3/4ton 4x4 chassis 48 International KB-5 2 ton dump bed 04 Honda CRF "500" 09 Honda CRF450 fuel injected rocket 03 Suzuki hayabusa carbonfiber wheeled monster. 02 Ford diesel stretch van (toy hauler) 01 38' Monaco diesel pusher motorhome

01-06-2010, 11:45 AM	#12
71biggreenk10 406 SB 700R4 NP205 Twin Stick Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Lexington Park Maryland Posts: 43	Re: shackle flip kit I also used 56” rear springs and ORD’s longer HD shackle. The truck rides like a dream and flexes like mad. Dirty Larry....How are you able to use the 56" springs? Do they just bolt up? do they change the positioning of the rear axle? Is there anything else I might need to know if I went this route? Btw I purchased the Shackle Flip Kit.....

01-06-2010, 01:20 PM	#13
tomtuna1978 Registered User Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Bend,Oregon Posts: 225	Re: shackle flip kit shackle flip with 56in. springs is the way to go !!! i did this on my 79 short bed and couldnt be happier !!!! the truck rides soooo smooth and it flexes like they say ! MAD !!! lol ... Cut the rivets off like dirty larry showed and youll be fine ! i did mine in like an hour or so !i just got the stock spring out of a 3/4 ton for mine( they say the stock springs flex more and ride smoother ) the axle didnt move back and i didnt need to do anything with my driveshaft( of corse mine is only the 4in lift ) the shackle brackets are used on the opposite side and you need the 6in. shackles,and i had no vibrations at all ! good luck Last edited by tomtuna1978; 01-06-2010 at 01:22 PM. Reason: added stuff

01-06-2010, 04:47 PM	#14
Prerunner1982 Registered User Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Edmond, OK Posts: 5,904	Re: shackle flip kit 71BigGreen... on the 73-87 (91) models the 56" springs are bolt in as the frame has mounting holes for 52" and 56" as these were options.. Hopefully someone can give you an idea how to do it on yoru 71, but so far those who have mentioned using them in this thread are 73-87s... __________________ Jon 1982 Chevy Silverado 350/th350.... RETIRED 1993 Jeep XJ 2 door(Cherokee) 4wd 4.0ltr/AX-15 (5spd)/NP231 .... Oklahoma Roll Call

01-06-2010, 05:03 PM	#15
yellow70GMC Registered User Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Reno, NV Posts: 161	Re: shackle flip kit The 56" springs will bolt up with no modifications. I will tell you that the pin is not in the exact center of the spring, it's offset. But in my case that was a good thing. When i did the shackle flip on my 1970 with the stock 52" springs, my axle got pushed forward about 2 inches, and i had to use the ORD 1" add-a-leaf blocks to move the axle back so it was centered in the wheel well. Might not be as bad on longbeds, but on my shortbed it was very apparent and i would definitely plan on getting the ORD add-a-leaf kit if you go with stock length springs. I switched to 56" springs and it alleviated the problem completely. Plus, with the stock length springs the shackle angle is terrible, the shackle will be straight up and down and it will take more energy to move it, and you'll have a rougher ride. If i were you i would order the shackle flip, and tuff country ez-ride 2" springs for a 73-87 truck. Call tuff country to verify the length of their springs. Hope that helps.

01-07-2010, 12:01 AM	#17
71biggreenk10 406 SB 700R4 NP205 Twin Stick Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Lexington Park Maryland Posts: 43	Re: shackle flip kit When I ordered the shackle flip kit, I ordered the Zero Rate Add a Leaf with it. I am hoping to move the axle back a little, as right now, even with my lift the rear tires will contact the bed sides if I hit a decent sized bump. It is good to know that the 56" springs will simply bolt up though. I read that with the 56" springs that I should mount the shackle flip kit backwards? I know this was specifically written by a 73-87 pickup guy, did you have to do the same with your 1970? also, I read that I should use the longer 6" shackles with the 56" springs, but again that was for the newer model trucks? Thank you for all your help.



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01-08-2010, 04:26 PM	#18
yellow70GMC Registered User Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Reno, NV Posts: 161	Re: shackle flip kit I didn't have to reverse the shackle hangers, but i'm pretty sure the 67-72 ones are symmetrical anyway. I would probably get the longer shackles from ORD if you have the $$$. I don't have them, but that's the next issue i'm looking to fix because my driver side shackle got bent.

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