Im wanting to lift the back of my 02 xlt with longer shackles but they’re very rusted. I’m thinking about taking it to a shop because I don’t have any proper tools for it but I don’t wanna spend an arm and a leg for it to be done. Does anyone have an idea of what a machanic would charge for that?

 

for what it's worth, my 'go-to' mechanic said my newly purchased 2001 4x4 shackles were rusted badly and could eventually break. I asked about replacement cost and he said the problem is there is generally so much rust that you can't salvage anything and end up with new springs and U-bolts etc, for a ballpark of $1,200 - $1,500. I decided to wait as long as I can. Did look at the rust on mine and agree if you start down that path, it will probably be expensive.

Hope you have better luck.
Couch

 

Replacing shackles are pretty common on these trucks. My 2006 shackles were paper thin when I bought my truck so I changed them myself. The only tool you need that you may not have is a hand grinder. Basically you cut off/grind the old bolts and rivets off which allows you to remove the shackle mount off the frame. Once you get the old ones out installing the new ones are a piece of cake. If I remember right I believe the new shackles and mounts (comes with bolts) was just over $100. There are many videos on you tube on how to do it. It's not that hard, messy but, doable.

 

Thanks for the tip. I'll definitely look into a DIY when the time comes. I do have a hand grinder so maybe I could do it.