Trail-Gear AAL install issues

That's irrelevant. The issue is the clips on his existing leaf pack. Those need to be removed.

Don't move the clamp, just cut it off! See my post. I cut one side of the clamp and drill out the rivet... Shortening the aal is totally unnecessary here. If you're worried about losing the clip because it keeps everything inline, just fashion one with two long bolts and some flat steel.

 

Seriously just cut the clamp off... you're going to have to factor in how much the aal slides along the leaf pack as it flexes, so you're going to have to cut off more than you think to avoid hitting the clamp during flex! You could really damage shit if that leaf meets clip during flex. A cutting disc will cut one side of the clamp off easily, and then just drill out the rivet...

 

So your saying run no clamp at all on the front? Or fashion one from a piece of metal that can slide back and forth since it's not anchored to a leaf.

 

Exactly. Probably wouldn't go without, but they're simple to make... or just buy some. Do a google search and you'll find plenty: http://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS-Performa...isCpTjEuOEuXT5vR3i3eThqckYo8kdP4aAiimEALw_wcB

(Just an example, didn't check for taco compatibility)

 

You can't go without and it not being anchored to a leaf it will eventually slide out of position. But I digress.

 

So anchor it... weld it, or make a nice tight one that sits next to the axle. The point it that it's not that difficult, and cutting the aal is a bad option. They are made to be a specific length and curvature. Besides, if you go the route of cutting the aal then you still don't have a clip on the aal.

 

New leaf pack... boom

 

So I ended up cutting about an inch off the front of the add a leaf.. should work fine.
It would have been more trouble trying to move the clamp as I don't own a welder and there really isn't much room to move it forward anyway. Its almost all back together, got the front 5100's in so hopefully ill have it back on the ground later today.

Thanks for the suggestions and input. I'll report back in a day or two once I can drive it and see how it feels

 

Alright you can have your beer back.

 

Just to close out the thread, the truck drives great and I have no problems with the rear leaf pack. Really happy with the setup and how it feels.

Got about 2 inches all around with the billies and 881's up front. Appreciate the input and ideas everyone!