How to Add Two Inch Blocks to Leaf Springs

Off-road and outdoor enthusiasts depend on their vehicles to stand up to the demands and obstacles nature presents. Drive train and suspension improvements routinely require upgrades such as shocks, suspension lifts, off-road tires and steering stabilizers. Often the most fundamental modification required for a vehicle being prepared for off-road adventure is the suspension lift. Installation of spacer blocks between the leaf springs and rear axle is a common task the enthusiast finds himself facing. The steps provided here detail installation of 2-inch spacer blocks to the leaf springs.

Things You'll Need

• Heavy-duty floor jack
• Automotive jack stands (2)
• Wheel chocks
• Wire brush
• 12-inch U-bolts (4)
• Combination wrench set
• Industrial socket set
• Shop hammer

Instructions

1. Park the vehicle to be lifted on a flat level surface then set the emergency brake. Place blocks around the front driver and passenger side tires to limit any roll when the vehicle is jacked up.

2. Lift the rear of the vehicle approximately 4 inches with the floor jack to gain access to the rear shocks. Place jack stands under each side of the vehicle frame to support the load.

3. Remove the rear shocks from the axle on the driver and passenger side with a 15/16-inch wrench. Leave the shocks connected at the top of the frame and allow the shocks to hang freely.

4. Remove the two U-bolts securing the leaf springs to the rear axle on both the driver and passenger sides of the vehicle. Use a wire brush on the threads, before attempting to back off the nuts, to help remove them. When all of the four U-bolts are loose, remove them from the leaf springs and set them aside. These U-bolts will not be reused.

5. Lift the frame of the vehicle up with the floor jack. As the leaf springs clear the factory blocks between the leaf springs and rear axle, slightly tap the blocks free and off the axle with a shop hammer.

6. Install the new 2-inch lift blocks between the leaf springs and the axle in the same position the previously installed blocks were placed.

7. Lower the frame until the guide pin from the leaf springs just starts to line up and set within the alignment holes on the new blocks.

8. Install the two U-bolts on both the driver and passenger sides onto the leaf springs to secure them to the axle and 2-inch lift blocks. Torque the leaf spring U-bolts from 100 to 125 foot-pounds.

9. Reconnect the shock absorbers to the axle on both the driver and passenger sides of the vehicle. Torque the shock absorber bolts to 85 foot-pounds. Remove the jack stands and completely lower the floor jack and remove it from under the vehicle. Inspect the brake lines to ensure they are long enough to avoid being torn during extreme driving conditions.

Tips & Warnings

• Cleaning the rear axle and leaf spring area with a pressure washer, before starting the project, will improve the accessibility of all components to be replaced and adjusted.

References

• Fat Bob's Garage: Rear Lift Block Instructions