How to fix a sagging backend?

[skippy]

airbags with in cab inflation that is what i have done

 

[MaxPF]

Why is it beneficial to have less arch? I've been told the opposite

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What he said vvvvv

Less arch means less movement and friction between the leafs, but more importantly you get a much more compliant ride. The more arch in an overall springpack, the more force it takes to flex it. You get good lift with a high arch spring, but it will usually ride like a grain cart.

 

[4speedfunk]

Don't forget...you really aren't fixing "sagging" rear springs, (like most other members). Instead you're trying to "lift" your rear to match the front. There's a big difference between the two. Sagging implies that your truck used to sit correctly...then relaxed over time. And that's not really your situation. Given the mods to the front-end of your truck, its very possible that there is nothing wrong with your rear springs....they just don't have the height you are looking for. True, most H3's rear leafs eventually sag...but, you're sort of in another group that is looking for more than just a sag-fix. Most of us can band-aid the sag with several solutions...shackles, add-a-leafs, air-bags...yeilding maybe a couple inches. But you need 6" of lift...and the best way to achieve that is with a SOA mod.

Those gigantic shackles are not ideal, and they are simply a back-yard attempt to get the rear up to match the front. I think you'll find that if you re-install some stock shackles, and mount the springs above the axle...you'll be sittin right where you want to be (and your ride quality will be stock feeling too). Yes...it is a job, and it does require some cutting, welding, and minor fabrication but, it can be done for under $200 on a Saturday with help from a buddy. You'll need to buy some new perches, lower-shock mounts, flat spring plates, and front spring hangers (I was able to re-use my stock U-bolts). I ended up with about 6.5" over stock (3" over the Rancho)...which seems to look good with the SAS on the front.

You can save a huge amount of fabrication and welding by keeping the stock front hangers...but you'll be WAY up there probably 8" or so. You might try doing just the "axle" mods first and then drop it down off the jack to see how it sits. If its too high, then pull the springs back out...pull the fuel tank...and chop/weld-on the new front hangers. Afterwards...you'll need to address: bump-stops, shock length, sway-bar links, ABS lines, Brake lines, and driveshaft length/angle. My driveshaft seems a tad short, and I may add a cardan-joint before I hit the road.