Group Buy: APRIL 22 DEADLINE Wheelers Offroad 1st Gen Leaf Replacement

Haven't you figured out yet that I am just waiting for you all to finish first so I know all the tricks and surprises? Suckas...

Besides all the parts, so far I have also bought:

Dewalt 4.5-in angle grinder in case I need it for the bolts--on sale $15 off at Sears (I've wanted one for some time now anyway)

Bigger torque wrench. I scored a used Snap-On 30-200lb half-inch drive from a pawn shop for $100. The same tool new would cost about $250.

Set of half-inch drive metric impact sockets on craigslist divorce sale, $50 ($89 new at Sears). See, divorce does have some good purpose.

Still searching for a deal on an electric impact wrench.

I am saving so much money! Right?!? Since I bought this truck last October, I have put about $2K into tires and suspension. At least it will be better than new, literally, since the OEM tires and suspension sucked so bad. Just say yes.

I am thrilled to hear that you guys are so happy with the improved ride quality. I can't wait...

 

Everything broke loose on mine with normal hand tools. The front main eye bolt on the drivers side leaf (the one that you can't pound out due to the gas tank being in the way) was somewhat seized in the bushing but spinning it with a huge breaker bar broke it loose, then we were able to press it out with some channel locks. Overall, it was a very easy install.

Also, I soaked everything in PB blaster for about 3 days prior to the work, about 4 times a day.

 

Thanks, steve o. I like how your truck sits. Help confirm that I picked the right parts.

The 881s and hanger bolts just arrived. I now have all the parts. Just need the time...

 

thanks, it rides even better than it sits.
It sounds like you have all the right parts. Im running the same exact setup as MTgirl, 5100's, 881's, and the 5 leaf pack.

Still need to do the steering rack bushings.

 

Er, I meant "it helps confirm that I picked..." My bad. Wasn't asking for your confirmation, but I dont' mind it.

Yeah, I need to put on my rack and sway bar bushings, too, but everything is waiting until my torque wrench comes back from calibration...

I was driving through a large industrial area yesterday where all the roads are pretty beat up by constant semi traffic. I was so pissed off bumping and bouncing over that crappy road when I have the solution just sitting in my garage, waiting. Traction? What traction? I can't wait to get it all bolted on and go for a serious backcountry romp in the Sierras!

 

lol, I was a little confused but I decided to confirm just in case

I also forgot to add that I have almost zero axle wrap now with the new leafs.

 

Thursday my springs come in... Friday night... the demolition and resurrection begins!

 

Hey, chica, I just checked out the new pics. Lookin' good! So is the "new after" shot after you had the wheel shop monkeys change the front Billies to zero?

 

Hey so did anyone else with the 5 left pack notice that it moved the axle back about 1/2"? Best way to tell is you can see new shiny drive shaft exposed in the back.

 

gettin everything put on right now.

pics later....

 

Mine stayed the same. The reason you see new drive shaft is because the rear is higher, making the slip yolk expand.

 

OK boys and girl....

Heres my measurements--

BEFORE:
DR front - 36 1/4
Pass front - 36 1/2
DR rear - 37
pass rear - 37

AFTER:
DR front - 38 3/4
Pass front - 38 3/4
DR rear - 38 1/2
pass rear - 38 1/2

 

Sweeeeeet. So, like, did you put the front Billies on 0?

I'm jealous you guys are done..

 

My god... with measurements like that I'm going to feel like I'm climbing into Big Foot... my suspension is so bad "stock" is between 32" and 34"...

 

My luck I will fall out. I'll try to make sure someone is recording so you can see the hilarity that ensues.