best method for replacing shackles?

I searched the forum a little for this question but didn't find exactly what I'm after. Hopefully it's not common a question!

I just purchased a set of ToyTec 1" lift shackles for my 2004 DC Tacoma. I've never done any work with suspension before so no idea what's involved. I know I need to relieve the spring tension somehow, but I don't have a floor jack. I do have a 2 bottle jacks, a hi-lift and an two jack stands. Can I make this work with that equipment or do I need a floor jack?

I've read about two methods for doing this. 1) jack up truck at rear diff; place jack-stands under frame; lower diff until springs are hanging free. 2) place jack between leaf spring and frame; open jack until spring is arched enough to relieve pressure on the shackle.

What's the best method? Safest?

Thanks,
David

 

hmm i would use your bottle jack you got under the diff, then support the frame with jack stands. but you may need to lower and lift the vehicle alot, i used a floor jack on my tow hitch, that way was really easy

 

Ummm #1 by far. you could also use the high lift on the frame and until the wheels are off the ground and set the frame on the jack stands

 

When I did it I rested the frame on jackstands, then used my floorjack underneath the diff so that I could lower/raise it as needed.

Installing the shackles is pretty darn straight forward. If there is going to be a hard part, that would be removing the stock bolts...this is where an air hammer comes handy!

 

Thanks guys. The jack between spring & frame seemed a little suspect but you never know. I found a floor jack nearby for $50 so maybe I'll just pick one up. Seems like being able to quickly adjust the hight of the diff is what makes it really simple job!