Topic: 1978 FJ40 suspension...any suggestions??

[solidmaui78]

I want a mild lift and i was thinkin OME 2.5"  Any suggestions or opinions on whats out there??? Thanks

[Hammerhead]

I'd put a shackle reversal kit on the front which should net you about 2.5" of lift and on the rear get some +2.5s or do some custom packs...

[solidmaui78 [OP]]

So the shackle reverse kit in the front .... does that make the ride better?   whats the pros and cons of both setups??

[Dooner]

Like you said there are pros and cons to both setups, spurring debates for many years. It seems that it really boils down to how you want to use your rig. Here are some of the main arguements, you guys can probably add many more.

Shackle Forward   
Pros
- Axle swings forward as springs compress, forcing tires into obstacle, resulting in increased contact pressure when climbing for better traction

Cons
- Axle swings forward as you drive into pothole in road, compressing springs and slamming tire into far end of hole resulting in a rough ride

Shackle Reversal
Pros
- Better road manners, axle swings away from bumps and holes in road

Cons
- If front drive shaft is too long to fully compress, it will try to relocate the transfer case behind your truck
- If front drive shaft is too short when fully drooped, the yoke will slide off of the shaft turning your truck into a pole vaulter
                         

[1-4MTNS]

Put the OME in it and be done with it. did it to my 77 and i love the ride .. be careful with that shackle reversal thing, read up on MUD and learn all  about the 40's.. ih8mud.com

[Dooner]

Just resist the temptation to use add a leafs. They are cheap and easy.. they do give a couple of inches of lift.. but man are they stiff!

[freds40]

What's your intent with the rig? What's the reason for the lift? (tires, belly clearance, the look)

[solidmaui78 [OP]]

well its a 78 and all stock id like to give it a better flex and a little more clearence.... i kind like the OME stuff...