I seen a lot of discussion about adding a leveling kit vs. removing the rear-end spacers to level out a truck. I can't really find any info about the real purpose of those spacers in the rear end. I am trying to choose between going with a leveling kit vs. just lowering the rear end. I'm a ways away from thinking about a tire or wheel upgrade.

Do they serve an important purpose? Are there any side effects of removing them?

Thanks.

 

As far as I know, there are no "spacers" in the rear of these trucks. There is a shackle.. something totally different. By REPLACING this shackle with a "drop shackle" you achieve 2" to 2.5" of rear end drop, thus making the rear end level with the front. Good luck whatever you decide to do.

-Chris

 

I was under the impression that there was a 2 inch block between the axle housing and the leaf springs on 4x4 models. I looked underneath and that seems to be the case. I am looking at something else?

 

You are both right. 4x4 does have the block. 4x2 just has the shackles.

I can't say definitely what the block does or doesn't do, Im sure others have an answer for that. But like you said, alot of folks remove it to level the 4x4. If you have a 4x2, you have to do the shackles

 

You are both right. 4x4 does have the block. 4x2 just has the shackles.

I can't say definitely what the block does or doesn't do, Im sure others have an answer for that. But like you said, alot of folks remove it to level the 4x4. If you have a 4x2, you have to do the shackles

 

It seems to me that yanking those 2" blocks out of the rear end may do funny things to your drivline (angles, etc). I doubt they are there for looks...

 

My fault, I overlooked the fact that you are 4x4. Sorry about the incorrect info..

-Chris

 

welll....PIGNFORD, not to say your wrong, but one of the best things i did for my old ranger as remove the rear blocks, to "pre-run" it more after my lift up front. i personally dont think it hurt the ride, only improved it if anything.
just one experience though, i dont dare work on my own truck now, too damn expensive.

 

I removed them on my FX4. No change in noise, performance or ride. The pinion angle change was less than 2 degrees. It dropped the truck enough I can a least reach things in the front of the bed.