Topic: Rubicon Express 4" lift flex

[Jeffy]

Would it be beneficial to tighten to where the bushing compresses, then loose to where the bushings is relaxed?

Well one of the problems with the stock shackles is that they sorta have a cup where the bushings is.  Stock shackles also tend to stretch out the bolt hole over time which isn't good.  I think having them a little tight is better.

I just torque my set to 12 Foot Pounds but I am using new Nylon lock nuts.  Jeffy , Bounty what's your TQ level for the shackle bolts?

Mine are around 30-40# I think preference.  I do know people who go as low as 12ft-lbs though.

[jfrabat]

Well one of the problems with the stock shackles is that they sorta have a cup where the bushings is.  Stock shackles also tend to stretch out the bolt hole over time which isn't good.  I think having them a little tight is better.

So if I am understanding right, you recommend I install aftermarket shackles?

Mine are around 30-40# I think preference.  I do know people who go as low as 12ft-lbs though.

I just loosened mine (all 4 sets, both at the frame and the spring eye) and jumped on the bumper a bit.  Then I retightened to 40ft/lbs.  Now the front shackles are almost vertical.  I'll keep you posted about any improvements.

Felipe

[Jeffy]

Well one of the problems with the stock shackles is that they sorta have a cup where the bushings is.  Stock shackles also tend to stretch out the bolt hole over time which isn't good.  I think having them a little tight is better.

So if I am understanding right, you recommend I install aftermarket shackles?

Felipe

Eventually, yes, I think it would be a good idea but you don't have to do it right away.  It's just something to think about and occasionally watch for.  I currently went back to stock shackles on the rear of my Jeep.  I noticed most of my stock shackles have wallowed out bolt holes.  Also, you may want to grease your suspension bushings.  This helps free them up and can help keep corrosion at bay.

[jfrabat]

Also, you may want to grease your suspension bushings.  This helps free them up and can help keep corrosion at bay.

This I did do...  LIghtly greased, but greased none the less.

Felipe

[might4banger]

I have the same lift... yes it takes a while to break in. The RE Std. has some big arches so, it will limit flex.

[wrangler387]

I also have the nylon lock nuts on mine and they are only 10 ft/lbs. Never had a problem. My RE 2.5" std flexes good, with the stock shackles the rear spring hits the frame in the rear under compression (which limits the flex). I've seen people post pictures with good flex of the bigger RE kits, so i guess just keep flexing it out until it breaks in. 

[Jeffy]

I have the same lift... yes it takes a while to break in. The RE Std. has some big arches so, it will limit flex.

I always like the proportions of your Jeep.  YJ's look good with 35's.  Makes me want to go back to stock flares.

[might4banger]

Thanks jeffy! 

[jfrabat]

In my case, I am thinking about new shackles....  Any recommendation?  I dont want any lift from the shackles, by the way.  And I prefer to stay away from the revolver or Z-bent shackles (have not read too many good things about these).

Felipe

[might4banger]

Go with a boomerang style... like the MORE or Curries. At full droop my rear spring bottom on the frame as well limiting travel. I have been tempted to do the same, but, my wallet is now empty.

Just
Empty
Every
Pocket

[Jeffy]

Go with a boomerang style... like the MORE or Curries. At full droop my rear spring bottom on the frame as well limiting travel. I have been tempted to do the same, but, my wallet is now empty.

Just
Empty
Every
Pocket

Boomerang shackles are the way to go, especially in the back.  The other option which adds lift is to relocate the rear shackle hanger below the frame, like on a CJ.  This is equivalent to a 1-5" shackle lift without having to use a larger shackle.

[jfrabat]

OK, so I found a better dirt pile to test the flexing of the RE 4" lift.  I also lowered the torque of the shackles to 40 ft/lbs.  Here's the result:





i still think the shackles are acting up, as you can see the one on the front passanger side is not compressing right (in my opinion, anyway!).  What do you guys think?

Felipe

[Oilsmoke]

I think it's VERY Green In FL 

[Jeffy]

OK, so I found a better dirt pile to test the flexing of the RE 4" lift.  I also lowered the torque of the shackles to 40 ft/lbs.  Here's the result:

i still think the shackles are acting up, as you can see the one on the front passanger side is not compressing right (in my opinion, anyway!).  What do you guys think?

Felipe

It's not flexing because you still have the front trackbar on.  The front passenger side is the worst since that's where teh track bar attaches to the axle.

Also, it's a good idea to rotate your swaybar up as high as possible and bungie it up.

[neale_rs]

I agree with Jeffy.  When I had a rear trackbar the side where the bar was attached (driver's side) did not flex as well as the other side.  The problem is that it forces the springs to the side (not made to work that way, just up and down) making them bind, bad design for leaf springs in my opinion.