estimating lift height from springs

[Minivek]

Hi all, I need to know if its possible to determine lift gained from leaf springs before install. I've got my original sport 2 leaf pack, an F150 5 leaf pack in good condition, lots of arc still, and another pack that was custom made to gain 2.5-3 inches approx.

The reason for this is I have a 4 inch lift kit, and I'm still unsure about going SOA, altough it might be the simplest way to go, and I'm thinking that truck would level out nice with a couple 100 lbs in the trunk or back seat (tool chest, 1 or 2 passengers in the truck, full tank etc.)

Any tips as to how to mix and match the leaves in order to gain 4 inches is welcome. Thanks a lot!!

 

[Minivek]

bump

 

[MountaineerGreen]

I got about 4" from my leaf packs which are all of my explorer leafs, two leaves from an older F150 leaf pack. It's still SUA, with some shackles. It is a stiff ride!

EDIT- there is no way to tell, it all depends on the condition of the leaf springs.

 

[Minivek]

anyone?

 

[Minivek]

thanks mountaineer, Also, would putting shackles to complete the 4" lift in the back diminish stability or handling compared to making a 4" lift spring pack by adding my F-150 leaves, the old explorer leaves are shot but all the other ones are in real good condition.

 

[MountaineerGreen]

I haven't noticed anything, I personally couldn't get 4" out of my leafpacks without the shackles. I haven't noticed any problems with it and use my Mountaineer to tow still.

When I no longer have to use it for heavy towing, I am going to get a superlift leafpack set and put in. It will be a better ride quality and flex better.

 

[Minivek]

how much does the rear sag when you tow with it? I think I'm gonna try to get so that its pretty close to being level when I have 3 passengers and 200 pounds in the trunk. I'm sick of losing 2 inches of clearance in the rear everytime I have a couple of people and my toolbox. thanx

 

[MountaineerGreen]

I don't have much sag at all , even with my travel trailer. The second leaf of the F150 pack is almost as long as the main leaf, so that helps quite a bit with the squat. Even with a bunch of junk and people I have very little squat. When its empty though, it rides rough.

 

[Minivek]

does the rear hop around when empty or does it just bang around more? I basically want the wheels to stay in contact with the ground, and I'm also thinking having a stiffer rear might help with keeping body lean on turns to a minimum. how's the rear doing on crappy streets on straights and turns?

 

[MountaineerGreen]

does the rear hop around when empty or does it just bang around more? I basically want the wheels to stay in contact with the ground, and I'm also thinking having a stiffer rear might help with keeping body lean on turns to a minimum. how's the rear doing on crappy streets on straights and turns?

I haven't had any trouble with hop or turning, but over rough roads, it will rattle your teeth. I don't have much body roll, I can still corner pretty well.

 

[Minivek]

Perfect, that's basically what I'm looking for.

Thanks a lot