Ok. I have a 99 4x4 supercab ranger. I just swapped in a 8.8 from a 99 explorer sport. My problem (not related to the swap) is that my truck sits fine now. When I put any amount of wieght in the bed my springs squat badly. Now they are original springs but I did add chevy shackles. Now I was thinking I have a couple options.
1. Replace the springs with a new pack. Mine may be worn out?Problem is I dont have the original shackles so the new springs plus the shackles may jack the *** end.
2. Add aal's. I think this will also jack the rear quite a bit.
I want to keep the ride hieght now, but make it hold that position with a little wieght in the bed. I tow a 12' aluminum v-hull boat periodicly. This thing sinks my rear about 3". I can easily lift the tounge of this boat myself so it cant wiegh that much. I really think its got something to do with the shackles. With any wieght back there they reposition themselves closer to the rear of the truck (pivoting) and down the truck goes. Does this make sense? I also replaced the rear shocks when the new axle went in. I am 6'2" and wiegh 250lbs. I can all but pancake the ranger standing in it. I would like to think it should be able to handle that without giving up (LOL). Any suggestions or am I sol

 

no matter what you do, its gonna raise the rear end when its empty. I would say AAL is youre best option to stiffen up the rear end. it will raise you about 2" when its empty.

 

Alright. I guess I'll buy an add a leaf and replace the factory shackle. That should even it back out. Any recommendations on an add a leaf? short or long?

 

The Procomp short AAL seems to be pretty popular. I didnt do an AAL in mine, Im running the skyjacker lift springs. That might be an option for you too. If you get the 4" lift springs and take out the factory block on top of the axle, you should net 2" of lift... plus you have the advantage of bolting the spring right on top of the axle which reduced axle wrap and wheel hop. Just another idea/option for you