add a a leaf/ shock/ shackle advise needed

[sterling]

Wanna do a budget lift to help the 60's sagging springs.
Couple of ?'s
Already have 4 long add a leafs from MAF that will go
on and want to do longer shackles and shocks at the same time w/bushings.
Currently running 31" bfg with good tread that I want an appropriate lift vs. size ratio (plenty o tread)

1. Should I do the longer shackles and add a leafs at
the same time or keep stock shackles and wait to see what kind of lift I get from the add a leafs
and debate shackle heights from there?Would like to do it once if possible.
2.With add a leafs and a longer shackles
(1" or 1.5" over stock) will
I be able to run factory shocks? Mine need to be replaced, but would like to run factory if possible.
If not how do I figure out the length of shock over stock needed ie: 2" over etc.
3.Where did you get your longer shackles and are you happy?

Sorry for the long?'s
The mud clan has been a great help
Thanks
Ryan

 

[Kavik]

The add-a-leafs are a great addition. I would hold off on the shackles until you have put some miles on the set up. Plus, the shackles will be easy to swap later. I eventually used a +2" shackle in the rear to level out my truck.

I ran 33 x 10.5's on add-a-leafs and kept my stock shocks. Stock shocks seem to have plenty of travel, and it was nice to have more room below the bump stop.

You should get 1 1/2-2" of lift, maybe more if your springs are hurting.

Soak all the hardware in advance w/ penetrating spray, and you may want to have a source for leafspring bushings (in case they go south)

Good luck!

 

[Tapage]

Ditto on Kavik post .. add the AAL and fun it as usual for some miles .. see how it goes. After that you can figure how much lift you need ( if need ) with shackles .. I would sugges some soft whocks coz the AAL will add some stifnest to your suspension ..

 

[sterling]

Thanks Kavik for the reply

The trucks not rusty and I already tried out the nuts with an impact my buddy gave me, seem to break loose easy
Never seen bushings like mine though, killed to the point where one whole side is toast, just replacing bushings would make a world of difference in the way she handles for sure

Anyone got advice on best source for stock spring bushings?

If I get 2" OF LIFT from the adds I will be pleased with the 31's
Thanks for the reply
Sterling

 

[hammer1]

Plus, the shackles will be easy to swap later.

Just dont wait too long.

 

[sterling]

Thanks for all the replies, looking forward to a non sagging rear!

 

[hank14]

Have you considered swapping for used 62 springs? I hear they are built better, and they can be had cheap from 62's undergoing OME lifts.

I thought about doing that to my 60 until I can get all the mechanical stuff worked out and spring for a 5 speed. The lift is the lowest on my list (because I know once I do, I'll want 33 inch tires, then I'll want 4.11 gears, etc, etc, etc.

I checked on coolcruisers web site, and they have poly and OEM replacement buchings for the springs. The OEM are fairly inexpensive, but I would buy them from America Toyota if they're available.

 

[sterling]

Hank
Have not thought about the 62 springs, are you saying they hold shape better than the 60 springs?
Interesting nevertheless.

 

[hank14]

I'll let someone with more knowledge explain- I think they were improved somewhat, I just don't know how. All I know is my 87 FJ60 springs are completely flat- there is absolutely no bounce in my suspension- it is bottomed out. The PO put new OEM Toyota shocks on it, but the springs are the problem.

 

[hank14]

Here's the thread I remember reading a while back about 60 vs. 62 springs.

I don't consider them the ultimate source, but coolcruisers has 2 different spring sets for the 60 and 62, which helps confirm they are different.

Springs TOYOTA

sor.com shows them as interchangeable, which obviously they are since OME sells the same springs for 60 or 62.

Specter Off-Road-Land Cruiser Parts - Page 287-Suspension

 

[sterling]

Thanks for the info Hank
I'll probably stick with the stock springs I have unless I come across a deal or find a broken spring in the pack...get new factory shocks at the same time and address my clutch issue in that order!