Reverse Shackles?

Has anyone done this and if so, how much is involved? I have been told that it is relatively easy, and the benefits are well worth it. I have a 1974 CJ5, 304 T-18.
Thanks in advance!

 

I have it on my '74, and it seems to really help on-road handling. Doesn't do much for mud pit running, tho!

I didn't do the conversion, so I can't help there. Basically they welded a longer plate to the front shackle mount, lowering the leaf spring mount. then installed the 4" longer shackle to the frame in the rear.

***NOTE*** I have been lead to believe this is NOT the right way to do it, as it hits the rear of the fenders, *even after major trimming*. The better way is to move the front leaf mount two inches to the front, for fender/flex clearance.

Pics in my SIG.

 

I have friends that have done it. The guys that off-road don't seem to be impressed with the results. The guys that do mostly street time are usually pleased with the results.

 

Heres pics instead...

 

OK. I'm going to buy the kit and install it. I don't do alot of on-roading, but my jeep handles like a jeep, what can I say? Have to get to the trails somehow!

 

One important and potentially costly effect of a shackle reversal is that your front axle will move back when it contacts an obstacle. This is good for ride and comfort but may be bad for your drive line, U-joints and transfer case. You may need to have a new front axle made to prevent damage to your TC at full compression.
The other problem that I have experienced is controlling the front end in panic stop situations, especially on slippery or uneven surfaces. When the brakes lock up the axle moves back unevenly causing the jeep to swerve.
I'm still happy with mine but it is just one more reason to drive carefully and be prepared when driving in a short wheel base vehicle.

 

A new axle? Isn't that a bit extreme? R) You mean a new driveshaft, right?

 

JMO - you are likely to be disappointed if you install reverse shackles becasue you think your Jeep does not drive right. A '74 CJ is fine on the highway IF everything is up to spec.

Also my opinion - you have little to gain by this mod other than protecting the springs from bending if you hit an obstacle at speed. The suspension geometry is the same otherwise. If others see an improvement from this mod, I would guess it's because the change puts them back to the proper suspension geometry (caster!) not becasue of any advantage to trailing instead of leading shackles. Much easier to fix it right by correcting the problems with the stock configuration, rather than throwing a lot more variables into the equation with such changes.

 

:iagree:

 

OOPS! I guess I need to proof read my posts!

 

I have a "custom" SRS set-up on my 75. But I also have 76 and after springs and hangers. (Thanks to the PO) I actually am very happy with my Jeep on road and off. I did get an extended travel drive shaft (7" of travel). Have had no problems.

 

I have it on mine; costs (including labor) outweigh the benefits.