New rear leafs and flip kit

[Speedracer39]

I have a 72 shortbed and have a DJM flip kit in hand and just ordered a set of new rear leaf springs. My current spring set up is 3 plus the overload the new ones I ordered are 4 plus overload my question is those that have already done this what spring configuration works best --leave the 4+1 or remove a leaf. I'm not going to haul anything just looking for a decent ride and looks. Thanks

[Mike C]

My truck has the HD 4 leaf spring setup with the DJM flip. Effectively lowered the truck 7 1/4". I removed the overload because it was interfering with the CalTrac bars. I used stock length front shocks on the rear moved to the more vertical second position on the upper shock mount plate. I redrilled it and used the new front mounts that came with the shocks.

I am very pleased with this setup and would go this route again.

EDIT: I would NOT modify the leaf pack at all. I do not consider the overload to be part of the main pack so take it of if you need to.

[Speedracer39]

Thanks for the info Mike C. I was also looking at the CalTrac bars online today. Still undecided I am planning on putting a Boyd tank in the rear and was hoping that would help on traction.

[KY_GMC]

I would agree with Mike C.

I went from HD springs (7+1) to 4+1 flipped and it is a good ride.





Of course, I can't haul as much as I used to, but the ride is good.

I also moved the rear shock a more upright position. This picture does not show it. I figured that out after my build was complete. That made it ride better without hitting the frame as much. I didn't do a c-notch in the rear either.

[Speedracer39]

Originally Posted by KY_GMC

I would agree with Mike C.

I went from HD springs (7+1) to 4+1 flipped and it is a good ride.

Attachment 1634595

Attachment 1634596

Of course, I can't haul as much as I used to, but the ride is good.

I also moved the rear shock a more upright position. This picture does not show it. I figured that out after my build was complete. That made it ride better without hitting the frame as much. I didn't do a c-notch in the rear either.

Wow --- That was a stack of springs you had-

[KY_GMC]

Yeah, I had close to 1 ton of stuff that I took to the scrap yard one time! And the truck is only a half ton! Definitely had to plan on braking sooner than later.

When I bought it in '96, it had 35" tractor tires on it and it would go anywhere,

[volksworld]

if you do decide to remove a leaf, take out a long one...due to leverage they act as softer springs...the short ones are the stiffest and are the ones that prevent spring wrap up and wheel hop...dont ask how i found this out...