New post for old subject...

[SplashMan]

OK, I have been checking posts and using the search for four days now. I got a lot of good information (almost to much my head hurts). I have read about shackles, lifts, torsion bars and twists. I have a 98 Sport 2WD. I want to do some mild off-roading(trails, mud-holes etc). I determained that a 2" lift will be good. I am totally confused as to which to get (add-a-leaf or shackles). I got the torsion twist down and that is my plan, but the rear end is confusing. I know you all are proble' tired of this subject, but I need help. Which is better or should I do both. Money is a major issue or I would have a 4WD Sport instead of two kids a wife and a new house(not sure if I want to trade them tho). I am also going to put a tow hook on the frount and on the back, any suggestions as to where to mount them?

 

[Trckmagik]

If money is an issue then I would go with the Warrior shackles. The part number from Desertrat.com is WAR153. These will run you about 50.00 bucks and are very easy to install. The torsion is free (Just get an alignment) then all you need is a little larger BFG tire. Just my 2 cents...

 

[SplashMan]

trckmagik,
Thanks for the $.02. Are the shackles hard to put on? And were can I order a pair from. I went to the desertrat page and couldn't find the shackles.

 

[EMStaxi]

Splashman, I paid 38.50 plus 12.00 s/h through Leon Rosser (800) 633-3727. The shackles (Part # WAR153)are shipped directly from Warrior. They are easy to install with basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches,etc), a floor jack or two, and some jack stands. The only trouble I had was trying to get the leaf spring eye to line up with the hole for the shackle due to the amount of tension that the springs have. I easiest way for me was to use a prybar to push the spring down into place so that I could get the bolt through the holes. Other than that it's a piece of cake. Make sure you have WD-40 on hand.
I would also recommend that you get a set of add-a-leafs to increase the height along with the shackles. It makes the truck look that much better. I think I have close to 3 inches of lift in the rear now. If you can install the shackles and add-a-leafs together, you will save your self a lot of time. You can order the Explorer Pro-Comp Add-A-Leafs (Part # EXP-13120) from www.SummitRacing.com for 26.99. I paid 6.95 for handling fee. Total was 33.94. Total cost for 2.5 to 3 inches of lift in rear...$85. Price maybe slightly different depending on where you live. Hope this helps. I will post my pics sometime this week.