I have a 2004 ranger XLT 2.3...i heard taht you can lower it for free by cutting the stock springs 1 1/2 coil to lower the front 2 inchs and i could flip the rear schakle in the rear to lower it 2 inchs also..my question is if i flip the factory rear schackle does that move the leaf springs under the axle or just moves the shackle?

 

It just flips the shackle you don't even have to un-do the axle from the springs

 

its not the safest way to lower but it sounds like it would work. i would be a little worried about hitting the bump stops though because lowering springs usually have a stiffer spring rate to help compensate for the height change

 

oh, never........... ever cut the coil springs, when it comes to lowering, just do it right the first time

 

ok...thanks guys! Anyone know where i could find a cheap 2/3 drop kit for my 2004 ranger? I know everyone says go 4/5 but i like the 2/3 stance....not to low but enough for my taste....know anyone with a kit used? AS long as it has everythning included to do the job.

 

I've done this but only cut 1 coil out of the front. I dropped about 1 inch in front and about 2 in the rear. I used air shocks in the rear so I can go up and down as needed. It "seems" to handle a little better now with less body roll even with the added weight of the 302.