Having trouble with reverse shackle installation

[Lynopractor]

Been upgrading the suspension in my 87 60. Having trouble getting the leaf spring to connect to both pins front and rear. I had to take the smaller pin out of the triangle shackle to get the leaf spring to connect. Any ideas how I can have the shackle kit assembled all the way and installed? I've got the driver side installed (minus the smaller pin in the shackle currently)... still have to complete the passenger side rear and front. Just figured I'd hit ya'll up for some tips before sorta installing all of them. I have a feeling I am going to have to uninstall the leaf plate and u bolts to get that pin back??

Thanks

 

[Lead Head]

It's a hassle. I recall needing to use a big pry bar to put force on the spring.

 

[julianramirez1005]

I used a combination of ratchet straps and big pry bars to finagle it into the right position. I made sure to grease everything up so you're not fighting any bushing friction. Having a helper makes this job way easier. I would check the install guide from the manufacturer if applicable.

This is not a job you want to mess-up on such as installing the leaf's backwards and then spending another 2 or 3 hours reinstalling them. Don't ask me how i know

a picture is worth a million words...

 

[Lynopractor]

 

[Lynopractor]

I ended up simply cutting the tail pipe off... rusted out anyway. I just couldn't reach the front center pin alignment with the smaller shackle pin in place. Ironman has told me to use a rachet, prybar, and possibly a jack to work it until it lines up with all shackle pins in place.

 

[Lead Head]

Yeah doesn't look like much left!

FYI: Those are "anti-reversal" shackles, not reverse shackles.

 

[Lynopractor]

Yeah doesn't look like much left!

FYI: Those are "anti-reversal" shackles, not reverse shackles.

Ok! Thanks for the clarification. Do you have any tidbits that could help me answer the original question? Figured most of ya’ll have a ton more than experience than me… obviously.

Thanks

 

[Lead Head]

Ok! Thanks for the clarification. Do you have any tidbits that could help me answer the original question? Figured most of ya’ll have a ton more than experience than me… obviously.

Thanks

Yeah, like we said above. Prybars, jacks, and straps to bend the spring where you need it. No easy answer, sorry.

 

[Lynopractor]

Dang it!! Thanks for the intel