how can I make my 98 an off-road machine?

[NickOD98XLT]

I think you're on the right track but you may want to decide and do one or the other of the aal OR shackles. Pick the one you prefer and do it first and see if you need more lift after that and the TT. Only use both if you think you need more in the rear. Considering you shouldn't go too high in the front with the TT, probably just one of the two lifts in the rear will be sufficient to keep it fairly level. Both might result in a rake you didn't intend but some people like the rear higher, hot rod style. Having used both shackles and aal (not simultaneously) I personally prefer the aal. You may want to read up on the differences if you aren't already aware. There's differing opinions on them.

You may also find this thread very useful:

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=208483

Thanks for the info man, I havent looked too deep into preferences on AAL or shackles. My leafs are getting a little saggy, so I'm sure the AAL will definitely help but one of my coworkers referenced me to this local shop that builds custom leaf springs, so i'll definitely be getting a quote. All in all, Since you brought up that good point, if/when I get those new leafs then I'll assess the situation and see if I want more ride height in the back.

I like lifted vehicles when they are evenly lifted. I see this 2010 Silverado driving around with his front end stuck up in the air, and the bed sags a lot in comparison. basically, it looks wicked ####ing dumb. Nice truck, dumb suspension.

Seriously though guys, thanks for all the info.

 

[OffTrac]

If you're getting custom springs, just have them built to produce the amount of lift you want and don't even bother with the aal or shackles.

 

[Koldham]

id look into water prepping your truck as well. choose a max depth and shield everything under that. my intake is staying stock so i have all my breathers and vents and such run to the top of the cowl. all the plugs underneath got a nice squirt if dielectric grease and im looking at adding drain holes in the doors and floorboards. keep your ujoints and ball joints well greased and regularly check/change driveline fluids. swapping out the carpet for a rubber mat would make cleanup easy and keep the stink down.

 

[NickOD98XLT]

If you're getting custom springs, just have them built to produce the amount of lift you want and don't even bother with the aal or shackles.

I was thinking the same thing to be honest. Save myself some money maybe, but I'll definitely save myself some time and effort. I'll see if they can just do a couple extra inches of rise instead of me buying an AAL, cause thats more logical.

 

[1997XLTRollover]

I would go AAL if I was doing only one of the 2. The Shackle kind of flattens the spring and puts more stress on it. I did a long AAL and my ride quality is just fine. I bet doing an AAL will be much cheaper than a completely custom spring pack.

 

[Rockwood]

I would go AAL if I was doing only one of the 2. The Shackle kind of flattens the spring and puts more stress on it. I did a long AAL and my ride quality is just fine. I bet doing an AAL will be much cheaper than a completely custom spring pack.

The F150 swap is nice too, I have that in 2 of mine

 

[1997XLTRollover]

The F150 swap is nice too, I have that in 2 of mine

I haven't done that on any of mine but also probably a viable option. Far as easy install, the AAL is something you get shipped to your door and don't have to find in a junkyard. Also don't have old leaf springs to get rid of after the swap. Some people probably don't care but it's a bit easier that way; personal preference really.

 

[NickOD98XLT]

I haven't done that on any of mine but also probably a viable option. Far as easy install, the AAL is something you get shipped to your door and don't have to find in a junkyard. Also don't have old leaf springs to get rid of after the swap. Some people probably don't care but it's a bit easier that way; personal preference really.

Well, I guess from here I'll just end up getting a quote for the springs, compare it to what my store sells it at, and then from there I'll do the AAL cause I do have fairly new shackles on my X anyway.