Hey team, I'm going to be lifting my ranger using the torsion bars and shackles in the rear. I'm curious about one detail though. Do I absolutely have to lift the front off the ground to crank the torsion bars or can i just crank them while the truck is sitting on its tires?

 

It only takes 10 minutes to safely support the front of the truck on stands. You should absolutely jack it up, you will have a much easier time with the torsion bar bolts and won't risk stripping the bolts.
There are some great threads on here about torsion bar cranking for lift, I'd suggest reading them. Lots to consider, including taking measurements to get it level and getting an alignment afterward.

 

I fully agree with you, I have read a few of the threads on here, just have not seen any about this. That's a good point on creating too much stress on the bolts though, thank you.
Also I will most definitely be taking it in for an alignment as soon as I lift it.