1.5” rear lift block with stock shocks?

Right. I thought that too. But I measured before and after and there is definitely a 1/4” difference.

 

.25" may be within the margin of error depending on how accurately and consistently you measured, and the exact place you parked/surface irregularities.

 

Parked and measured both exactly in the same level spot in my garage. Measured from ground up to fender, following the center of the wheel. I think the stock shocks are worn out, and are so much easier to compress than the new ones. The new ones took some effort to compress them to mount the bottom bolt. That extra compression of the new shocks is probably not letting the rear end sag in as much as the old ones. Either way you slice it, it is 1/4” higher.

 

If that's the case your leaf springs must be really worn out as well.

 

I agree. I know an AAL or completely new pack is really what I should be doing, but for now I just need to keep it cheap and simple.

 

So I have had blocks, AALs and 5100s then the 5100 extension version... I think it's like 1562 or something.. I started with the polyurethane blocks 100% do not recommend unless you don't plan on driving... They will crack and break with any hard upward and downward travel.. I recommend getting the steel ones.. with that said an AAL is a lot better as it's not going to prematurely kill your leaf packs.. adding blocks are going to apply pressure to the leaves arch causing axle wrap of you are using your truck as a truck at all. An AAL will help preserve your leaf springs and add height and depending on with company you go with can help or hinder the ride quality ie: rough country already explains the ride quality in the name
That being said I'd use blocks if I was waiting for a more permanent solution and you wanted to get measurements of the ride height you are looking for... Other option that's more permanent is look into the old man emu thread on here.. you can buy a leaf pack and take out load springs or leaves to dial in your ride height and comfort.. just from experience of being a member on here for over 12 yrs

 

Pic with 1.5” blocks installed in the rear. Much better than the 1” blocks I had previously. Truck looks more level with the slightest bit of rake.

 

Exactly. So many people on here buy the rear 5100s because they think they need to for a small lift (based on bad info from the internet) without checking the actual length.

 

I’m my case, my rear shocks were worn out anyway so the 5100’s are a big improvement.

 

They’re fine replacements if you need new shocks anyway. Tons of people buy them just because of their lift though, and they don’t even realize they aren’t getting anything more from them in that area. There are extended length Billies out there though… just not the typical 5100s that most people buy.

 

I don’t know why most lift kits, or “leveling kits” always do like 2”-1” or 3”-2” front to rear. I’d rather a 2”-2 1/2”, or a 3”-2 1/2” or even front and rear the same lift amount. I think a little rake is a good thing especially on a pickup truck.