Are you looking to improve the stance and handling of your Chevrolet truck? Installing a set of Chevrolet lowering shackles is an affordable and effective way to achieve a lower rear end.
Lowering shackles replace the factory shackles and reposition the leaf springs to drop the rear of the truck. This not only enhances the appearance but also lowers the center of gravity for better stability and cornering. In this guide, we'll walk you through the installation process and share some maintenance tips to keep your Chevy riding smooth.
Choosing the Right Lowering Shackles
Before you start, make sure to select the correct lowering shackles for your specific Chevrolet model and year. Shackles come in different drop lengths, typically ranging from 1" to 4". The most popular choice for Chevy C10 and Silverado trucks are 2" or 3" drop shackles.
It's important to pick shackles that are designed to fit your leaf spring and frame mount bolt sizes. Most Chevrolet trucks use 9/16" or 5/8" diameter bolts. Shackles are also available in various lengths to accommodate different bed and frame configurations.
Tools and Supplies Needed
To install your lowering shackles, you'll need the following tools and supplies:
- Floor jack and jack stands
- Socket set and wrenches
- Penetrating oil or WD-40
- Grease gun and chassis grease
- Torque wrench
- New shackle bushings and hardware (if not included)
Make sure you have everything on hand before starting the job. It's also a good idea to spray the old shackle bolts with penetrating oil to help loosen them up.
Step-by-Step Installation
- Safely raise the rear of your Chevrolet with a floor jack and support it on jack stands. Make sure the truck is level and stable.
- Remove the rear wheels for easier access to the shackles and leaf springs.
- Starting on one side, remove the lower shackle bolt first, followed by the upper frame mount bolt. The leaf spring may shift, so be careful.
- If your new shackles didn't come with bushings, grease and install them into the eyes of the leaf spring and frame mount.
- Position the new lowering shackle in place and loosely install the supplied bolts. The shackle should angle down and towards the rear.
- Repeat the process on the other side. Once both shackles are in, you can snug up the bolts but don't fully tighten them yet.
- Carefully lower the truck back down to the ground. This will allow the suspension to settle and the bushings to seat properly.
- With the weight of the vehicle on the suspension, torque the shackle bolts to the manufacturer's specs, typically 70-80 ft-lbs.
- Reinstall your wheels, lower the truck all the way, and take it for a test drive. Check for any unusual noises or vibrations.
Maintenance and Upkeep
To ensure your Chevrolet lowering shackles provide years of trouble-free performance, it's important to maintain them regularly. Here are a few tips:
- Grease the shackle bushings every oil change or 3,000 miles. Use a grease gun to pump chassis grease into the zerk fittings until you see it oozing out.
- Inspect the shackle bolts periodically for any signs of looseness or wear. Retorque them if needed.
- If you frequently drive in wet or snowy conditions, spray the shackles with a rust inhibitor to prevent corrosion.
- When lifting the rear of your truck, always support it by the frame and not the axle or shackles. This prevents putting undue stress on the bushings.
By following these simple maintenance steps, your lowering shackles will provide a smooth, lowered ride for many miles to come.
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These heavy-duty 2011-2019 Chevrolet shackles designed for 2011-2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 HD trucks. They offer a 2" rear drop for a more aggressive stance and improved handling.
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If you're looking to slam your classic Chevy C10, this shackle and hanger combo is the perfect solution. It lowers the rear of your truck by a full 4 inches, giving it that laid-out look. The hangers are precision laser-cut from 1/4" steel plate and designed to bolt right to the frame. The shackles include polyurethane bushings and new mounting hardware.
Chevrolet Lowering Shackles Installation: Safety Guaranteed
Installing Chevrolet lowering shackles is a simple and effective way to lower your truck's rear end for improved appearance and handling. By choosing the right shackles for your model, following the installation steps carefully, and keeping up with regular maintenance, you'll enjoy a smooth, lowered ride for years to come. So go ahead and give your Chevy the stance it deserves!