I want to get rid of my rear factory block for better articulation off road. I am getting a set of James Duff traction bars, so I am not worried about axle wrap. What can I use to replace them, and still maintain my factory ride height. I already need to replace my rear leaves because they are completely flat.

I looked at a set of Deavers, but I need to keep my tow capacity up. I need some opinions on the Deavers, are they really that bad? What else can I use?
Should I just get a set of stock replacement ones and install some Chevy Shackles?

 

your taking the block out to get better articulation, but then the traction bars are gonna hurt it again..

 

Yeah I got that from reading, but I want to get a set of traction bars anyways, so I figure taking out the blocks with those will only help improve things. I have already dented my box sides from the 265's, and would rather not do any more.

 

Yes, they are that bad for towing/hauling....BUT, call Deaver, they can throw together a set built to your specs.

 

you can go get a custom trac bar built that comes down the inside of the frame and attaches to the axle next to the pumpkin, it still does the same job and won't hurt your travel as much.

 

thanks for the quick reply. with Xmas so close I'll probably have to wait till the new year. But i think there is a spring shop right behind my work. I never even thought of that. I'm so used to just going on the interwebs that thing like that slip my mind...



Is this so it kind of dissipates the force over a wider area when i do bottem them out? Or does it kind of act like a "crush zone"/cushion?

 

Ahh I see. I am trying to learn as much as I can about suspension and how geometry affects things. I think its cool how you can temper and shape a coil spring to react different ways under different loads etc.

Do you know of any books/online manuals to help with suspension understanding?


I am most certainly going to talk to the spring shop behind me. They come in every so often for parts/tires (I work at a yamaha dealership) so I'm sure they wouldnt mind me asking some questions.