97 Front Spring Conversion to SD??? - Diesel Forum

billcare · 04-12-2007, 08:12 PM

I was wondering if any one knew of a write up for converting to SD front leaf springs? I think you need new shackles and need to re hang them. That's about all I know. Also Part numbers would be great along with a reputable company that carries Poly bushings. Thanks in advance!!!

danjreed · 04-12-2007, 10:28 PM

CaryT will be along in a moment to reccomend the RSK and SD springs if you have a dana 60. If not, he'll also reccomend that you do the D60 first.
Most folks use the OEM black rubber bushings as the polys seem to squeek and give a slightly harsher ride.
The SD springs are longer than the OBS springs, and the axle pad is not centered on the leaf. The front hanger has to be moved to keep axle position correct, so you might as well cut the rear hanger off and do the RSK.
I believe that someone did use the SD springs, hangers, and shackles instead of the usuall RSK, but I don't remember their name. CaryT will know, or it will be in one of his previous messages.

radarman · 04-12-2007, 11:14 PM

HERE is my write up I did on my conversion... Hope this helps. Again, CaryT will be around to add to this I am sure..

caryt · 04-13-2007, 11:21 AM

Dam, maybe the mods will stickey this thing one of these days [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]
2 ways Shannons way or my way [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img].

Get a RS kit from web page and a set of SD springs, you will need a adj trackbar and "good" shocks...Bilsteins or Donahoes. Search my member name or others since there are tons on how to do this mod.

2nd way... web page

cary

billcare · 04-13-2007, 09:39 PM

Thanks for the info fellas. I not particularly interested in lifting the truck ( wife is 5'2" and has dislocated her shoulder getting in!!!) But I think I like Shannon's version although I think lowering it could be dealt with by installing a block to raise it up again, not sure. I'll keep his post around for future ref. Wonder if shannon bought parts at ford or after market...

caryt · 04-13-2007, 09:51 PM

You can adjust the height by useing w or x springs in lieu of the V codes.

Cary

4rcFed · 04-13-2007, 10:29 PM

Now it sounds like Shannon's way allows you to keep the stock front bumper in its original position, correct?

danjreed · 04-14-2007, 12:17 AM

[ QUOTE ]
But I think I like Shannon's version although I think lowering it could be dealt with by installing a block to raise it up again, not sure.

[/ QUOTE ]

NO! Absolutely not. Blocks are for the rear, not the front. If you want to lift with Shannon's version, use a longer shackle. This might require moving the perch to keep the shackle position correct, but much safer than using a block on the front.

caryt · 04-14-2007, 11:05 AM

[ QUOTE ]
Now it sounds like Shannon's way allows you to keep the stock front bumper in its original position, correct?

[/ QUOTE ]

Yes as far as I know..Shannon didn't say it posed any problem with the bumper.

Cary