I'm looking for a cheap way to get a little more height out of the back of my truck. Does anyone have experience with both? I haven't decided whether to go with an aal or shackle. I rarely tow or haul with my truck so the extra strength from the aal isn't a factor

 

Then get shackles. AALs give a rough ride when not hauling extra weight.

 

How much lift do you want to get? The shackle will only give about 1" maybe 1.5". But aal usually give 2"

 

I doubled up the leaf under the main in my truck, 1 leaf and you can re-use the stock u bolts, I only had to spend ten bucks on center pins and it lifted it a good 2.5-3" in the back....less work then a shackle lift too if you have an upstate truck.
link to pictures of before/after

https://www.f150online.com/forums/19...-pictures.html

 

I would get some blocks... like $50

 

I'm only aiming for around an 1.5" or so. I looked into getting a taller block but in the process I found shackles for $50 as well and they seem easier to install

 

Either or, go with what you have(can get)... It's about the same job in my opinion just different ways to approach it.