Suspension Lift Install Question/Advice Request

[75JOE]

Fed Ex made it here with new 2 1/2" suspension lift to replace the interesting one that was done to it sometime in the past.  Went with the 11 pack rear.  I have soaked all the bolts and nuts with PB Blaster a couple of times.  How long should I let it work its magic?  Also, to those that have gone down this road before, can everything be broken loose by hand or will I need to use an impact wrench?  What are the chances of breaking something off if I use an impact?

[JustaFordGuy]

Hey Joe,
If the blaster hasn't loosened them up after an overnight soak then it probably never will.

You can do everything with hand tools but it will take much longer. If the u-bolts are really rusty and don't come loose easily you are better off just to cut them with a die grinder and replace them. If they are that bad you don't want them back on there anyway. Be sure to make sure your brake lines are not to tight after the lift. I had to buy longer lines for my 2.5" lift.

Depends on the impact wrench but I find I break more bolts by hand.

[lonesouth]

I didn't do the rears, but all of the front bolts came off with breaker bar, no impact needed, though it may have made things go quicker.  I can probably stop by to help from about 8:30-10 if needed.

[75JOE]

Thanks for the info.  Already has extended brake lines so that is a plus.  Kit came with new u-bolts.  Ironically the old ones are about the only thing from the original lift that looks to be in good shape.

Parker, will give you a call this afternoon. 

[FloridaBronco]

good your not supposed to re use U bolts. and as to the impact  VS breaker bar, IMO the impact is less likely to snap a bolt. it is applying a turning motion and an impact every few sec in the turning direction. A bar seems to also add a side load while turning on very stuck fasteners. Its hard to hold it 100% centered when your really having to crank on it. But as Parker said it worked for him so if it works then great. plus I am lazy so impact for me!

[75JOE]

Thanks for all the advice.  Finished the front this morning.  Could not have done it without the input from those on here or an impact wrench  .

Cannot believe how much better it handles.  After spending 20 hours +- on the front, going to break down and have a shop install the rears this week.  Upon closer inspection I think it will be worth the $180 they are going to charge.

[JustaFordGuy]

I'm glad you got it installed without to much trouble. Modern suspension parts do make a huge difference in ride quality over the old wore out stock stuff for sure. The rear is easier than the front if you decide to do it yourself but $180 is a good deal for the labor.

[JustaFordGuy]

Hey Joe,
Did you get the rear suspension finished?

[75JOE]

Pick it up Monday.  Based on the time I spent at the shop and follow up discussions it was the right call to farm out the rear.  Would have been done but the bad shackles slowed them down.

[JustaFordGuy]

Hey Joe,
I noticed your 75 is still at the shop, are they having trouble?

[75JOE]

Murphy insisted on showing up again after the shackle problem.  Rear center brake line started to leak.  No big deal...tell them to replace with braided stainless.  Calls me back and tells me to check one of the vendors because he will have to have it custom made locally because his suppliers cannot get them and will cost stupid $$$.  So I have front and rear lines shipped from Tom's and delivered Friday.  Call and verify he got them says yep and will be ready Saturday around noon.  Tells me one of his guys have the rear springs and shocks done but he can't believe how much it raised the rear.  I say I know they have to flex and settle some.  Got there this afternoon about 4:00 to pick it up and cannot believe how high it is in the back...get that "no they didn't" feeling.  Yep...11 packs put on backwards.  Will pick up Monday(hopefully).

Yes, I did explain in advance the military double loop had to go to the front.  Info did not make it to the guy doing it .

Keep reminding myself it is a marathon and not a sprint.

[JustaFordGuy]

Well that sucks, This is exactly why I don't let anyone else work on my stuff.

[lonesouth]

it is a little late, but connie lyles can do custom lines and they are very reasonable.  Ask for Scotty.

[75JOE]

I am realizing it may take me longer to do things but it would at least be right.  Well hopefully right  .

Thanks for brake line info Parker.

Just for the record, the back is still not completely squared away.  It will be this weekend.  Top shackle bolts are binding.

[JustaFordGuy]

Tell them to leave the bolts loose until all the weight is down on the wheels. Not a bad idea to drive it around the block before you tighten them.