Leaf Spring Lift
Many trucks are supported by leaf spring suspensions. Leaf springs offer exceptional articulation, a large payload and can take a substantial amount of abuse. With the correct methods they can be modified to help your vehicle carry more weight, have better articulation and fit large oversized tires. Some vehicles may be equipped with front and rear leaf springs or just rear springs.
Some methods of lifting are good for the rear, but not for the front, such as lifting blocks. Lifting the rear with blocks is a common way to achieve the desired height. This is done by installing a block, of the desired height of lift, in between the leaf spring and leaf spring perch and installing longer U-bolts. It is a bad method for the front primarily because of safety issues while braking. When braking, the front wheels create the majority of the braking force. The block moves this lateral force, caused by braking, higher above the axle than it did in the stock form. This can cause the block to become displaced from its location and result in total loss of control. For further explanation see this link;.
A more accepted way to build up the leaf springs is by using an add-a-leaf. This is done by inserting an extra leaf into the vehicle's leaf pack. Using the add-a-leaf will increase the height, but sometimes makes the suspension ride rough because of the added spring rate. A complete description of how this is done is shown at this link; . With an adequate budget, the best way to lift with leaf springs is to buy a new set with the lift built in. When using an add-a-leaf you are relying on the integrity of the old springs. They may be a bit worn out, so when the lift is installed, the proposed 2 inch leafs may only have lifted the truck 1.5 inches. The new leaf spring pack will not be fatigued and will give the "true" lift desired. These packs can be bought at various increments of lift and can be combined with lifting shackles to give the proper set-up.
Read more about this topic: Suspension Lift
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