Removing a lift kit

Remove preload spacer and leaf block, remove diff drop if it has its then align,

preload spacer needs to removed with a proper compressor, not something you do at home.

 

True.

*Unless* someone has it all loose working on it and put it back together incorrectly, like missing the center pins.

But it only takes a bit of paying attention to get it right.

 

BFH?

 

Here's a video with a way to remove the front coilover. You should take it to a machine shop with a coilover press to remove the preload spacer. The top hat spacer should be fine as a leveling kit, but definitely remove the preloaded spacer. The spacer ratio is typically 1" of spacer = 2" of lift.



As others have mentioned, and some good advice here, you'll need new OEM U-bolts for the rear (I have some newer ones if you need). Obviously, remove the rear shock spacer too. The leafspring center bolts will typically need replacing if you need to separate the leaf pack.. Make sure to re-torque everything, especially the U-bolts.

Check to see if there is a carrier bearing spacer on that axle too, and check the alignment.

4 wheel alignments are done to confirm the rear axle is true. Some reasons for the rear axle getting out of whack? A bent frame, axle shifting in the U-bolt (typically from a loose U-bolt), bent rear leaf spring hanger or front perch, bent or folded shackle, bent axle tube, bent hub or even the rear wheel. GL!

 

Thank you for this, very helpful!
I would certainly be interested in the U bolts.
Is there a good place for me to look to find all the torque specs?

 

He can use the LCA with a jack to compress the spring. I installed my OME 2.5 in lift without a spring compressor. 100% agree on your safety points, springs are NOTHING to screw around with however, it can be done safely using a jack and the LCA to compress the spring and get the shock through the top hat.

 

Yup, This is exactly how I removed that preload spacer. Safe and easy.

 

You might want to pull this post ASAP, it still falls under the BST rules, so you could get in trouble.

In addition, you should toss the U-bolts. They shouldn't be re-used.