I want to lower the rear of my Lariat 4x4 slightly and based on forum member's input I plan to do this by taking out the 2" blocks in the rear. To do so I was told you must change the U-bolts from 4x4 to 4x2 because they are shorter in length.

I called my dealer the other day to buy the U-bolts and was met with a surprise - he wanted to know what size wheels I had. Why? He says there are different U-bolts required depending on wheel size??? One PN for U-bolts for 17-18" wheels, another for 20"???

I discussed this today with my tire dealer who will do the work and he was clueless. His only thought was maybe - since the 18s are stock on my truck and 20s optional, there would be a different spring set up thus requiring different U-bolts?

Does any of this make any sense to anyone? I understand going from 4x4 to 4x2 because of difference in length, but how why would wheel size make a difference???

Since I upgraded to after market 20" Foose wheels, I guess I should buy the U-bolts with the PN for 20"???

 

The part for the 20s might just have a few less extra threads? Do they have them both in stock? Ask to see them. Maybe also check with a parts store.

 

rockauto lists one u-bolt for your year. they have the same u-bolt in 2wd and 4wd. i see nothing stating a rim size and it looks like you may be able to use your 4wd u-bolts.

 

Not a single auto parts store I check even listed U-bolts. Best they could do was refer me to a spring shop here that does work for guys lifting 4x4s.

The dealer had none in stock and the closest one who did was in Georgia - I'm in Louisiana! And that dealer had only one.

The PN he gave me for the 20" U-bolt was "6L3Z5705K" while the one for the 17-18" wheels was "6L3Z5705FA". In case that means anything.

As for using my 4x4 bolts I'm good with that except everyone who earlier advised me said you had to make the switch. I'm gonna check with a online parts place I use and see what they say.

Anybody else got ideas, experience with this??