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4-leaf Dorman springs in 2WD Ranger for lift?

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Old Feb 28, 2023
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reddranger03's Avatar
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4-leaf Dorman springs in 2WD Ranger for lift?

Investigating a 2” lift for a 2005 Ranger 2WD — I think my leaf springs are 3-packs stock. Are these Dorman 4-pack units factory replacements for the 4x4 version?

If I installed these on my truck, would it get a bit of lift? My leaf springs are very rusty and the bushings shot, and 2” add-a-leaf kits just bring my 3-leaf springs to 4 leaf, which this Dorman unit is from the start. Am I missing something?

Dorman 929-216 Rear Leaf Spring Compatible with Select Ford Models: Dorman 929-216 Rear Leaf Spring Compatible with Select Ford Models https://a.co/d/2Kx4Ufp
 
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Old Feb 28, 2023
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No, it wouldn't lift it more
Ford used blocks on the rear to lift it, you can too and use longer U-bolts

There were a few "stock" leaf springs used, these were for the weight rating, all Rangers were 1/2ton, 1,000lbs rated, but trailer package would get higher load rated springs to prevent squatting in the rear
But higher rated spring weight comes with a cost, the ride in the rear is stiffer, when bed is empty
If you run with an empty bed most of the time its better to use lower weight rated springs with an added overload spring, smoother ride and better traction
 
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Old Feb 28, 2023
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Belltech 6400 shackles will to the trick. Will get you 2' lift.
 
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Old Feb 28, 2023
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reddranger03's Avatar
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Originally Posted by RonD
No, it wouldn't lift it more
Ford used blocks on the rear to lift it, you can too and use longer U-bolts

There were a few "stock" leaf springs used, these were for the weight rating, all Rangers were 1/2ton, 1,000lbs rated, but trailer package would get higher load rated springs to prevent squatting in the rear
But higher rated spring weight comes with a cost, the ride in the rear is stiffer, when bed is empty
If you run with an empty bed most of the time its better to use lower weight rated springs with an added overload spring, smoother ride and better traction
Are leaf springs as you describe available already put together?
 
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Old Feb 28, 2023
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No, I don't think so, overload leaf is added to each side, this leaf doesn't come into play until load in the bed exceeds 500lbs or so, then it prevents squatting in the rear
You usually add these to lightest rated leafs available, so best ride but can still haul loads when needed
 
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Old Mar 1, 2023
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reddranger03's Avatar
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Originally Posted by RonD
No, I don't think so, overload leaf is added to each side, this leaf doesn't come into play until load in the bed exceeds 500lbs or so, then it prevents squatting in the rear
You usually add these to lightest rated leafs available, so best ride but can still haul loads when needed
Alright, so I could get something like this: https://torchoffroad.com/products/19...ford~md_ranger

and add it to my stock 3-leaf configuration? Just buy new Dorman 3-leafs and put in these extra leafs?

You say the back is lifted with blocks and I know that’s a part of it, but what’s the deal with these extended shackles I see that are also described as helping lift the rear? Like these: https://a.co/d/9FvEhfc

I’m sort of confused which parts I need to configure everything in the most reliable way possible.
 
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Old Mar 1, 2023
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Originally Posted by reddranger03
Alright, so I could get something like this: https://torchoffroad.com/products/19...ford~md_ranger

and add it to my stock 3-leaf configuration? Just buy new Dorman 3-leafs and put in these extra leafs?

You say the back is lifted with blocks and I know that’s a part of it, but what’s the deal with these extended shackles I see that are also described as helping lift the rear? Like these: https://a.co/d/9FvEhfc

I’m sort of confused which parts I need to configure everything in the most reliable way possible.
That is what i posted. The shackles will give you 2 inch of lift. Have them on my sport.
 
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Old Mar 2, 2023
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reddranger03's Avatar
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Originally Posted by RoseBud68
That is what i posted. The shackles will give you 2 inch of lift. Have them on my sport.
Ok, turns out I actually have the 4-leaf springs on the truck now. I’m thinking to simply replace the springs with identical Dorman replacements, and add a 2” shackle, no blocks.

Should I still add a leaf in this scenario? I’m going with “no”. If I’m replacing the springs anyway, should I actually purchase 3-leaf Dormans instead, then add a leaf?
 

Last edited by reddranger03; Mar 2, 2023 at 01:49 PM.
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Old Mar 2, 2023
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Looks like you have made up your mind on replacing the leaf springs. Just do that and see how it sits and ride. If your still looking for the 2" lift than add the shackles.
 
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Old Mar 9, 2023
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4 leaf springs

I replaced my sagging 4 leaf factory springs with 4 leaf replacement springs at factory specs and it did lift my truck almost two inches in the rear. Pic is with the old broken and sagging springs. After the springs have settled for almost a year, the rear sits about an inch and a half higher and rides really good. You can never go wrong with updated suspension. I run KYB struts and shocks with the replaced leaf springs and high country front stock replacement coil springs.
The ride is awesome.

 
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