TT/Shackle - bolt head sizes?

[bmdenver1]

I did a search and think I found the answer to one question. Doesn't look like anyone's answered my second question.

I am going to be doing the TT/Shackle lift this weekend, and I just want to make sure I have the correct wrenches before I get started. I have a 97 XLT.

Sounds like the torsion bolts have a 13mm head. Does that seem right? I'm used to my Jeep CJ which didn't use any metric, as far as I know.

What is the size of the bolt head on the rear shackles? There's be a whole lot of discussion about the bolt size and length, but didn't see anything about head size. My 7/8" was too big, and a 25/32" was too small. I'd rather not buy all the metrics in between if I don't have to (20, 21, 22mm).

Also, as someone new to Explorers, can I expect most everything to be metric? I'm going to start getting a truck tool box together, and I'm wondering if I should just go buy a whole set of metric sockets/wrenches.

Thanks,
Brent

 

[Jason_25]

Most everything on mine is metric. I don't remember having used a standard size on anything yet.

 

[Alec]

I have a whole metric/standard socket set that goes up to I think 22mm metric. It was a good investment as I think I've used almost all of them at one time or another. I don't remember the size of the shackle bolt heads, but I do know I had what I needed in my set. A good investment is a decent socket set with standard and metric with a good case so you can toss it in the truck when you need it. Mine was about $20-30 at Home Depot.

 

[aldive]

If you want the best tools, go with Snap On. If you want good tools with a great warranty go with Craftsman. I would avoid all the cheapie ones.

The tortion bar adjuster is a 13mm size; I do not know the size of the shackel bolt, sorry.

Good luck.

 

[TarHeel085]

well i used a 1/2" socket for my torsion bolt. and my shackles i used i think maybe a 3/4 or 5/8" socket on that.

 

[aldive]

Originally posted by TarHeel085
well i used a 1/2" socket for my torsion bolt. and my shackles i used i think maybe a 3/4 or 5/8" socket on that.

That might work, but, it is a metric size ( 13mm ).

 

[bmdenver1]

Thanks for the input

I stopped at a hardware store over lunch to get some of the tools I needed. Also needed some items to install a K&N FIPK this weekend.

I checked again, and my torsion bolt is 13mm. The stock shackle, however, best fit a 13/16" socket. Turns out my confustion stemmed from the fact that the 13/16" socket from my set has disappeared, and it's space was taken over by an extra 3/4".

Incidentally, if anyone cares, the bolts that came with my new Warrior shackles (WAR153) use a 22mm socket. Looks like a 7/8" might work, but it's not quite as snug as the 22mm.

Thanks for everyone's help.

Brent

 

[bipolarbob]

Yea..no cheap tools if you value your knuckles