I was wondering if instead of using longer butt ugly shackles, couldnt you get the same results by relocating the rear axel spring perches above the axel instead of under the axel. Would this work fine as long as you got the pinion angle right?
The truck crowd does it all the time. You're looking at a good four inches of lift though. dearched springs would be almost mandatory.
I have seen it done on a Maverick. It raised the back end about 6 to 8 inches it seemed. The owner said it rode like crap and he wished he never done it.
Ok, since everone seems to agree that this is not a good idea are the 6" shackles that are on there now really needed. The look I m after is to raise the back up a little so that the tail is not look like it is dragging. To me the stock ride height it looks like the rear is lower than the front. I would like to run 15" rims if this is possible.
You are not talkin' much lift just to level the car... You probably don't even need shackles. I am no expert, but you might do well just to get some new, HD rear springs. You could also add a leaf to your existing parts. Lowering the front end a little will 'raise' the rear. New shocks, air shocks if you are so inclined... not me personally. You could also use the shackles on their lowest mounting point, then cut off the other 8" of shackle hanging down that you do not use... then they will be less unsightly. Replace your spring bushings with poly... that can take up some slack in the suspension too. Just some ideas to give you alternatives. Like I said, I am not the most knowledgeable about suspension, so I am sure there are alot of other good ideas that folks will touch on to keep you from such a drastic mod. Dave edit: Just caught the jist of the last post... Are you saying that you have 6" shackles on there now and the rear is still too low?!? If so, you need to go through your suspension. It should be crazy stink-bug with that much shackle.
Bushing are not wore out. Previous owner just had the tail way up in the air by using 8" homemade shackles. Very ugly and I never liked it when you see a shackle hanging under a car. I would like the rear up a little without the use of bigger shackles than stock. That is what I am trying to accomplish if it is possible. I would rather spend countless hours grinding and welding than to be able to see a long shackle hanging below the car. Adding a leaf or having some springs re-arched sounds like the best idea to me.
