Lower/level rear of 2011 GMC 4X4?

[JAG66]

Need to lower my father in-laws 2011 GMC 4X4 about 1.5" - 2" in the rear to level the truck. Anyone done it and what do you recommend?
I assume longer shackles, but looking at it, the factory shackle bolt heads face the frame and I don't see how I could get the bolts out of the shackles.

Anyone removed the bottom leaf overload spring and how much does it drop?
Anyone remove the 1" thick block that is under the leaf pack?

Thanks, Jeff

[6.0 1955]

I used drop shackles and removed 1"block that's between the housing and springs. The shackles were not as hard as they looked. Trailer hitch must come off. Then loosen factory shackle and Jack entire assembly up to slide the bolt out. You may need to bend a rib on the underside of the bed but no big deal. Attach new drop shackle and reverse assembly. Then if you want undo u-bolts raise the rearend housing and remove 1"block. Then reattach with factory u-bolts just ad about a 1/2" spacer between nut and bottom pad. That's how I dropped mine 3"s cheaply.
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[JAG66]

Thanks for the reply. I looked at his yesterday and think that's the plan I'll take. Couple more questions: How much did just shackles lower and where did you buy them? Also, if you have a side shot picture of your truck, I would appreciate it. Thanks, Jeff
jeffgarner66@yahoo.com
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[6.0 1955]

Jeff,

I did everything at once so I can not accurately state how much just the shackles lowered the rear. I bought the shackles from ebay but check out the for sale boards on performancetrucks.net or other sites dealing more with the newer trucks. I have also attached a picture of the rear of the truck after lowered 3"s. Most people I know with 4X4's raise the front 2"s to level their trucks. Thats pretty simple as well just buy the spacer top hat fo that. But I like mine lowered as it's just 2x4. Good luck with the install. Matt

[theastronaut]

Don't forget to re-aim your headlights lower to compensate for the dropped rear, or your low beams will be pointing up into oncoming driver's eyes. Your high beams will be aimed too high to be 100% effective also.