Question on rear options (1st gen)

2003 Xtracab V6 4x4.

I think I'm set on the OME complete kit for a "middle of the road" upgrade from the worn out stock suspension. Daily driver, weekend warrior.

My question is for the rear. I'm not sure if I should go with AAL (maybe longer shackles?) to the sad stock leafs or opt for the Dakar pack. Would I need to remove any leafs if I went with the full pack? The only additional weight currently on the truck is a bed rack + RTT, plus camping gear on the weekends.

In terms of lift, it's my understanding that the coilovers aren't adjustable, you get something like 3". I'm not sure what the difference in lift is between AAL and Dakars but obviously the truck would ideally be level with ~200lbs on the bed every day.

I have room in the budget to do it right, but I'm not aiming for anything too extravagant at this time. Just a couple steps above stock.

 

I have no experience with OME's aside from their Dakar leaf springs which I installed just 2 months ago.

With the exception of the constant squeaking, I've been really happy with the leaf pack.

Upon initial install, I thought I would've had to remove a leaf since I wasn't happy with the severe rake I achieved but over time/mileage it's settled quite a bit and I have a small bit of rake (acceptable IMO).

The Dakar's really like to flex, and I've pushed them one way or the other until I was resting on my bump stops. What's funny is, I bought my truck and suspension for the intent to take it camping with me as well. Current mods are Fox 2.5 coil over fronts set at 2" of lift, and Bilstein 5100's in the back (temporarily while I get my Fox 2.0's revalved).

Just installed my bed rack yesterday and I believe once I get a tent on it, it should sit near level or perfectly level.

(Initial install)



(2 months later, picture from yesterday)

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Oh and before I forget, fab up or buy a brake proportioning valve relocation bracket kit and extended rear brake line (if you plan on flexing the rear end).

Extended bump stops don't seem to be mentioned for those running a full OME setup; seems the shocks limit travel?

 

They settled nicely, looks like I might want to go with a full pack and not take any leafs out. Did you get new shackles with them?

 

I used the stock shackles, but went with OME bushings.

I opted to install Wheeler's u bolt set, and Super Bump stops as well since I don't want to bottom out and damage my shocks.



One of these days, I'll get my extended brake line installed.