Custom U-Bolts

[atk]

Ok got the u-bolts made and ready to go on the truck. But just to make sure I do this right...I am using 3"factory blocks and noticed they have a taper (taller on one end than the other ) does the smaller end go toward front or rear? Also does the factory block with the "wing" sticking out go on top of the 3" block or under it? THanks

the smaller end will go towards the front of the truck. that way it will keep pinion angle in check...also put the block with the wing will go on top. reason for this is, the wing will hit the bump stops on the frame, if and when the rear suspension is at full compression....hope this helps....

 

[Super 05]

Exactly what I needed to know. Thanks ATK and all the others who chimed in. My work is done and the leveling kit made the truck look 100% better!

 

[patrickc]

How is the stance? Did it give you a little bit of rake like I said it would?

 

[Super 05]

Actually the stance looks almost level to me. But the measurements don't lie, 1/2" to 3/4" higher in rear. Looks good though. Now if I can figure out if I am having a slight vibration at take off or if paranoia is overcoming me.

 

[patrickc]

I'm glad to here it turned out ok 4 ya.

Sometimes they do have a slight vibration because the u-joints are riding in a different spot. I have found if you drive it for a while the vibration disappears once the u-joints find their new grove. If the vibration still persists you might need to lower the carrier bearing but it shouldn't be necessary with only a couple inches of lift. It is quite easy to tell if you need to lower the carrier bearing. The bearing should be on roughly a 90 degree angle to the drive shaft. The easiest way to tell is look at the rubber and see if their is any strain on it (the rubber will look a little twisted) if so you should lower it.

 

[Super 05]

Patrick is a walking encyclopedia! Thanks again

 

[Super 05]

The vibratation was there for sure and wasn't going away. When the trans changed from 1st to 2nd it was so bad the outside mirrors were shaking! I used the 1/4" for every inch of lift rule. Since I used 3" blocks I lowered the carrier bearing 3/4". Now the vibe virtually DISAPPEARED. Even less than when I first got the truck. Also no need to waste your money buying a kit to lower the bearing. Do as I did and make your own with the total cost being roughly $15.00. That includes the flat stock with new nuts and bolts as well.