Eddie Bauer AWD TT & shackle

[RichyRich]

Hello,
I'm researching for my friend who has a '98 Eddie Bauer with AWD. From searching this site I've learned that to fit the 32's he wants he will need the following:

- Torsion bar adjustment & possibly purchase new stiffer bars (I'm guessing the EB would have the softest bars for comfort?)

-rear shackles

As I stated above I have searched but didn't find much on Eddie Bauer specific info (I’m not sure if EB specific info is needed, but I’m sure you guys can set me straight).

-I’m wondering if the AWD system has any special requirements when lifting. Also I’ve noticed that his EB seems to have a lower ride height than other Explorer's. Will a shackle/TT lift be less effective on the EB because of the already lower ride height?

-Are AAL's available instead of shackles? From what I've heard shackles tend to flatten the spring pack faster, but AAL's make the ride firmer. Please tell me why most Explorer owners seem to use shackles (based on what I've read in the last 30 min) rather than AAL's.

-How much will need to be trimmed from the EB style flares with the shackle/TT lift and 32's?

TIA for any advice, and I apologize if I’m asking common questions. If his truck was not an EB I wouldn’t have asked.

 

[Alec]

No need to swap the torsion bars out.

He'll probably need a 2" body lift in addition to the 1.5-2" suspension to comfortably fit the 32s, especially if you think his EB rides low.

The shackles are good because they are easier to install and don't affect the ride. They don't flatten the springs faster, they just accentuate whatever flattening there is.

 

[Alec]

BTW, Welcome and Good Luck!

 

[RichyRich]

Alec thanks for the welcom and your help

-So the AWD is no different than 4wd as far as a lift is concerned?

-From the fitment guide I saw that 32's would fit with just a shackle/TT lift. Since his is an EB it may require the body lift too?

-It seems like no 2 Explorers are the same, what is the reason for this?

Thanks again.

 

[Alec]

1) no different

2) most need trimming or a BL to fit 32s with the small susp lift

3) manufacturing tolerances, different wheels and tires, and different springrates.

 

[Jason_25]

Many Eddie Bauers come with the stiffest torsion bar, code "B".

If you are planning on running 265/75/16's on the stock wheels, then you will be fine with just the Torsion twist and shackle lift. Just prepare for some plastic trimming.

However, one of the torsion bars may need to be removed to be set straight because it's not properly indexed from the factory. You'll know because one side can go higher than the other with the TT.

This thread should help you out:

Dead Link Removed

 

[RichyRich]

Great info!

His stock wheels are 15" chrome steal wheels and he plans to keep these. Right now he's running 30X9.5 BFG AT's but would go to a 32 in the same tire.

The "B" torsion bars are good news

 

[Alec]

If he's running 30s now with no lift the 32s should fit without the BL, but you will need to trim.