Journeyman
Join Date: Sep 1999
Location: Oregon
Posts: 197
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Re: Missing link
Hi Alan -
In order to give you accurate information, understanding that you do NOT want more lift, I will do the best I can to help you. Rear springs up front by nature provides 2" of lift. They are also 3 1/2" longer than the original front springs. The 3 1/2" in extra length is what makes the Missing Link work properly as well as provide good ride quality. To make a Missing link work, it requires the use of a longer spring. The longer spring causes the front axle to be move forward - this is generally considered a GOOD thing. However, the frame is not flat - it droops downward at the front. Because the attachment point of the shackle is moved forward 3 1/2" and the frame droops downward, this combination creates lift as well as negative caster angle. Both of which are undesireable in YOUR circumstance - HOWEVER, in order to improve ride and achieve the same ride height you are after, I would recommend using the rear main leaf only - combining it with 3 of your current de-arched front leafs. This should give you a negatively arched spring pack which will work just fine. Incorporating a 3 degree shim (with the thick portion at the rear) - will create a combination which will positively affect your ride height and provide postive caster angle for good steering characteristics. I would also STRONGLY suggest using STEEL SLEEVED urethane bushings in the chassis as well as the springs. This keeps side loading to a minimum and maintains good handling characteristics - which is a CRITICAL step commonly overlooked and an unnecessary source of complaint regarding the use of Missing Links in the front.