Suspension options

Ok, so I think god was sending me a message to not sell the cj, so I have decided to tear it apart and make it to where I want to drive it more.
Question 1. One of the leaf springs is broken. I am wanting to lift it a little and would probably use a bigger shackle to accomplish this, but since I need a spring and set of shocks anyway, would I be further ahead to buy a lift kit package with new leaf springs and shocks included?

Question 2. Mine are the 5 leaf springs. If I replace, should I replace the pair, or all 4?

 

Yes get a kit.. I would not lift a jeep with shackles, they tilt the axle at one end and increase the ujoint angle on the driveshaft, and alter the steering geometry ( the jeep will wander on the road). If you do lift with shackles, it is recommended not to exceed 2" longer than stock (not 2" of lift), there and beyond you can have handling issues. to question #2 I would replace all 4, especially if you are lifting it.

 

Buy the lift kit and stay away from a shackle lift. They cause all the problems listed above, then some. Depending on how much lift you go, don't forget a drop pitmen arm. Good luck.

 

i vote 1.5 bds lift. good ride and flex plus lifetime warrantee...

 

I too started down the spring road with a broken spring. I put on the skyjacker soft ride lift springs. One thing I learned is that if you're taking off old springs and adding lift springs you will get a lot more lift than just the amount of the lift springs because the old springs are sagged out.

Mild lift shackles worked for me but if you use them just use the sturdy ones with a cross bar.

 

I would definately go with a kit. That will be cheaper than buying separate pieces and probably not any more $ than trying to find some decent stock replacements. Something to keep in mind if still spring under is the thinner the spring pack, the more clearence you have.

Extended shackles can cause a few more problems than mentioned. They will wear bushings out much faster than stock and you can bend the frame rail above the shackle hanger if you come down hard on something or perhaps even getting twisted up good. A lot more leverage on the mounts. Both of those things can be engineered around with shackle/bushing design and some frame reinforcement but lift springs are a better solution.

One complication I had with using lift springs and a one piece tie rod conversion using the stock double TRE at the knuckle is that that double TRE would hit the spring. A two hole knuckle is the best solution to that problem.

 

http://bds-suspension.com/product?ma=7&mo=28&ty=28&yr=1953-1968
The price here is high retail. Usually a little cheaper from a 4x4 shop and may be able to save on shipping. I paid $550 for the last one I did. Great springs with a real warranty.

 

Thanks guys. You've convinced me.

 

http://bds-suspension.com/policies