Got the Truxx leveling kit..but....

[YANKEES31]

I got my Truxxx leveling kit installed today by a GM dealer. It is was installed to the exact height that the directions said bit it now seems as if the rear is lower that the front. What can I do to remedy this. Add a leaf to the rear possibly?

[H3slate]

get longer shackles to raise it back up.

try here

http://www.samcofabrication.com/products/product_info.php?products_id=47&osCsid=50ce061e8b99e34712776123573ff564

http://www.samcofabrication.com/products/images/Picture%20196.jpg

[Big Dad]

No no no no no, dont do that....

[Big Dad]

Sorry, my finger slipped, I sprained my wrist today. You're in Jersey right? Or close to Jersey?

[Big Dad]

$hit, I did it again...anyways, um just get yourself a big old fat chick, usually found at Mike's Jersey subs and cruise her around for a couple of days! Make sure she rides up front!

:jump: :jump: :jump:

[Hucky]

So are you trying to say that the Rig will settle in the front after some time and he will be leveled out in due time?

[Big Dad]

Seriously though, before I spent any money I'd park it on level ground. Pop the center hubs and measure the distance from the center of the axle to the fender, front and rear to determine how much space you're dealing with. That'll help you figure out the game plan.

[Big Dad]

So are you trying to say that the Rig will settle in the front after some time and he will be leveled out in due time?

No I was joking! Used to live in Jersey.

[YANKEES31]

Ok why shouldnt I get them?

[Big Dad]

Ok why shouldnt I get them?

I'm not saying not to get them, just dont get them yet.

Before spending any of your hard earned cabbage you might want to park it on level ground.

Pop the center hubs and measure the distance from the center of the axle to the fender, front and rear to determine how much space you're dealing with.

That'll help you figure out if you really need them.

My vehicle is level with that same install.

[Big Dad]

I have to ask, is there any popping noise in your front end? You know, like earlier discussions?

[YANKEES31]

No popping noise. I have it on level ground right now and it just looks like the front end is higher. We did the measuring and it was dead on 24 1/4 or 1/2(I forgot what is called for)

I put a level on the nerf bat and the front is higher...at least it seems like it to me.

What are the pros and cons of the shackles?

[Big Dad]

Never used em.

[Hucky]

Shackles are like Hinges

Also known as a poor mans lift, ghetto rig.

Let the thing settle in a bit first before worrying about it, Nothing wrong with a little pre runner look for now.

[Big Dad]

Shackles are like Hinges

Also known as a poor mans lift, ghetto rig.

Let the thing settle in a bit first before worrying about it, Nothing wrong with a little pre runner look for now.

I agree, "not that there's anything wrong with shackles" they might work for some, but I wouldnt use them.

I'm into the spec side of the story.

How much distance is between the center axle and fender? I'll go check mine.

[Big Dad]

Sorry, trick or treaters.

I got 23 3/4" on the front and 24 1/2" on the back. More importantly it appears dead on level.

It could have settled a bit.

No fricken popping noise either.

[H3slate]

I agree, "not that there's anything wrong with shackles" they might work for some, but I wouldnt use them.

I'm into the spec side of the story.

How much distance is between the center axle and fender? I'll go check mine.

Just like the truxx kit, the shackles will lift the back of your truck. But these shackles only lift it 3/4 in.

Like Big Dad said, give your front end time to settle.

If you are into the spec side of the story why did you put an aftermarket part on to alter your front suspension?

I am all about the level look and the different ways it can be achieved, just curious about the logic of that statement compared to what you have done to your rig. To elaborate, if you can change torsion keys to raise the front end, why can't you put longer, beefier shackles to raise the back end?

[Big Dad]

Just like the truxx kit, the shackles will lift the back of your truck. But these shackles only lift it 3/4 in.

Like Big Dad said, give your front end time to settle.

If you are into the spec side of the story why did you put an aftermarket part on to alter your front suspension?

I am all about the level look and the different ways it can be achieved, just curious about the logic of that statement compared to what you have done to your rig. To elaborate, if you can change torsion keys to raise the front end, why can't you put longer, beefier shackles to raise the back end?

Sorry, between trick or treaters...got in a hurry and typed what I was thinking at the time. Hopefully this will clear it up. I'm studying for a midterm in my Economics (2nd statistics class-hypothesis testing) and like to jump in and out of here for a reality check! That $hit is fuking difficult.

:giggling:

Here goes:

I'm interested in the specifications i.e. measurement axel to fender at each wheel, concerning/involving the discrepancy, or potential discrepancy Yankees31 has discovered with his leveling kit in order to troubleshoot it. You know, sharing info on the forum.

I didn't experience the discrepancy he has and being a plane nut I'm fascinated by solving problems, especially mechanical and electrical ones.

For example, replacing the main landing gear/truck on a 747 or any heavy airframe for that matter, is time consuming, the book calls out for specific measurements to be taken at different intervals during the installation process. It's basically to prevent/bring to light potential problems that could be addressed during installation in contrast to them being found later during the tire and brake install. Or worse, during the op ck (operational check) when one would throw the handle and swing the gear test anti skid etc, only to find that the assembly had to be taken apart for repair. In other words "git her done" right the first time.

Personally, I got no problem altering a vehicle from its "stock" specifications.

Aka rigid frame Harleys!

Other than service geeks playing the "aftermarket" card in order to deny an owner their warranty.

Wouldn't a "better" alternative to installing shackles be found in adding a leaf or having modified (I believe-arched) leaf springs installed?

Perhaps, by "better" I mean a more reliable, longer lasting, cheaper than a fricken lift, permanent fix solution other than the shackle i.e. "ghetto rig" solution.

[wpage]

Jared,
After you determine the distance of the discrepancy. You could crank down your front torsion bars to get it "down in front". Most of us have gone the other way to get some lift in front...

[YANKEES31]

I am about 1/2 inch higher in the front. If I go ahead and get these shackles will the truck need another alignment?

[NewHummerGuy]

I am about 1/2 inch higher in the front. If I go ahead and get these shackles will the truck need another alignment?

I am amazed you can even notice a 1/2 inch variance just by looking at the truck.

[YANKEES31]

It is pretty noticable

[Big Dad]

1/2 inch? Either crank it down or take it back and tell the install to crank it down for you.

[H3slate]

I am about 1/2 inch higher in the front. If I go ahead and get these shackles will the truck need another alignment?

You should maybe try turning down the torsion bars first, there is definitely nothing wrong with taking the bars back down a little.

When you adjust the torsion bars you should get an alignment, but adding the shackles should not reguire an alignment.

Thanks for the explanation Big Dad, if you are in the right neighborhood, you can get over a hundred trick or treaters, which makes for a busy night.

Yankees31, how about some pics and measurements of your truck?

[sattv]

My problem is ARE the fenders a good leveling point (they flex) I have been measuring from the frame to the ground maybe this is wrong? maybe not?
But who is to say the fenders are the same height on both sides?

[Big Dad]

My problem is ARE the fenders a good leveling point (they flex) I have been measuring from the frame to the ground maybe this is wrong? maybe not?
But who is to say the fenders are the same height on both sides?

Exactly. What are the specs.

[sattv]

So should I purchase a Truxx kit or just extend the shocks and crank the bars?

[Big Dad]

So should I purchase a Truxx kit or just extend the shocks and crank the bars?

Well, I'm an educated man, private University type...the person you want to consult with is...CollegeSucks! JK!

:jump:

Actually you'll want to do a forum search and figure that out on your own. There are many postings concerning the pros and cons of torsion bar and level kit.

You'll find that some fenders are at different heights which I equate to improperly cranked T bars. MHO.

[Big Dad]

You should maybe try turning down the torsion bars first, there is definitely nothing wrong with taking the bars back down a little.

When you adjust the torsion bars you should get an alignment, but adding the shackles should not reguire an alignment.

Thanks for the explanation Big Dad, if you are in the right neighborhood, you can get over a hundred trick or treaters, which makes for a busy night.

Yankees31, how about some pics and measurements of your truck?

Sorry about being long winded...my fricken brain is drained.

[YANKEES31]

Pic is a little blurry but you can see what I am talking about

http://jneumann.smugmug.com/photos/216021768-M.jpg

[Big Dad]

Pic is a little blurry but you can see what I am talking about

http://jneumann.smugmug.com/photos/216021768-M.jpg

Dude man,

Throw a level on that driveway! That looks righteous!

[Big Dad]

It looks like more than a half inch though. Is it an Adventure model?

[YANKEES31]

No it is an "X"

So you think the shackles will right it?

[Sewie]

Wouldn't a "better" alternative to installing shackles be found in adding a leaf or having modified (I believe-arched) leaf springs installed?


How is an AAL any less "ghetto" than a shackle lift? And you'll likely end up with a crappy ride. Custom springs would be the best option for lifting the rear (aside from a SOA ;) ) but would cost much more than either AAL or shackles.

[Sewie]

Don't even mess with the rear yet. Just crank the t-bars down a couple turns.

[YANKEES31]

Just curious why wouldnt you mess with the rear. I figured the easiest fix from what I read would be just to add the new shackles. If I bring the front down then another alignment will have to be done..right?

[waynesoffroad]

The front end is not going to settle. The only time that it would settle is if you changed your torsion bars. If you have had your h3 for a while the springs are already settled. For the rear all you need is a set of Jeep YJ lift shackles. They are much cheaper and do the same thing. For you guys calling it Ghetto, What do you think your doing buy cranking the torsion bars up!:giggling:

[Big Dad]

How is an AAL any less "ghetto" than a shackle lift? And you'll likely end up with a crappy ride. Custom springs would be the best option for lifting the rear (aside from a SOA ;) ) but would cost much more than either AAL or shackles.

I posed the question, e.g. "Wouldnt...."

Originally Posted by Big Dad
Wouldn't a "better" alternative to installing shackles be found in adding a leaf or having modified (I believe-arched) leaf springs installed?


But uh, let me get this straight...add a leaf is as ghetto as installing a shackle?

How so?

What about arching the springs? It don't cost that much. Is that ghetto also? If so, why?

What exactly do you mean by custom springs?

Lastly, SOA?

Thanks in advance.

[Big Dad]

The front end is not going to settle. The only time that it would settle is if you changed your torsion bars. If you have had your h3 for a while the springs are already settled. For the rear all you need is a set of Jeep YJ lift shackles. They are much cheaper and do the same thing. For you guys calling it Ghetto, What do you think your doing buy cranking the torsion bars up!:giggling:

I didn't crank my "T" bars.

[H3less]

Just throw a 9000lb whinch on the front and she will be sitting pretty!

[BradO]

I had the same issue with the front being a little higher. Got those shackles from Samco and they did the trick. The stance was perfect and ride was better than with the front end higher.

[wpage]

You could put a air lift on the rear. It gives certain options...
http://www.shockwarehouse.com/site/product.cfm/id/288201/name/59563-Ride-Control-Air-Spring-Kit

[Big Dad]

I had the same issue with the front being a little higher. Got those shackles from Samco and they did the trick. The stance was perfect and ride was better than with the front end higher.

So the shackle solution isn't so cheesy? Ride's good? WTF? I've never used them and never heard anything positive about them. Aside from H3Slate 's comments.

"get longer shackles to raise it back up.

try here

http://www.samcofabrication.com/products/product_info.php?products_id=47&osCsid=50ce061e8b9 9e34712776123573ff564 (http://www.samcofabrication.com/products/product_info.php?products_id=47&osCsid=50ce061e8b99e34712776123573ff564)

http://www.samcofabrication.com/products/images/Picture%20196.jpg
__________________

[sattv]

I ordered a truxx kit yesterday ........I will see how it looks cause my front end is way low with 3 turns on the bars.........I figured I had no choice truck looks dorky jacked up like a stink bug:raar:

[Sewie]

But uh, let me get this straight...add a leaf is as ghetto as installing a shackle? How so?

I don't think either is ghetto. That was my point. ;) But they're both cheap ways of getting a little lift.

What about arching the springs? It don't cost that much. Is that ghetto also? If so, why?

Not ghetto, but not needed, unless the springs are flattening out. Plus you're looking at more cost and more effort.

What exactly do you mean by custom springs?

Going to a spring maker and having leaf springs custom made. There's lots of companies that do it.

Lastly, SOA? Spring over axle.

Thanks in advance.

Another issue with add-a-leafs for the H3, is that with a spring-under configuration, you'll actually be decreasing your clearance at the u-bolts. I added shackles a while back (http://www.elcovaforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=28707), and along with some other suspension upgrades, the truck rides and handles better than stock IMO. Plus there is added articulation in the back - not much, but every bit helps. ;)

[Sewie]

Just curious why wouldnt you mess with the rear. I figured the easiest fix from what I read would be just to add the new shackles. If I bring the front down then another alignment will have to be done..right?

I said "yet". ;) Adding shackles is fine, but then you'll eventually want new, longer shocks in the rear. So why not just turn down the t-bars for now and see how it sits?

Now my real advice would have been to forget the truxx kit and just crank the t-bars and maybe add the Cognito/Bilstein shocks.

[RuggedH2]

I said "yet". ;) Adding shackles is fine,

Now my real advice would have been to forget the truxx kit and just crank the t-bars and maybe add the Cognito/Bilstein shocks.

Yep. ;)

[Sewie]

The Samco shackles are WAY overpriced. The ones I got are just as stong, provide more lift, and were 1/4 the price.

[TXSUT]

Pop the center hubs and measure the distance from the center of the axle to the fender, front and rear to determine how much space you're dealing with. That'll help you figure out the game plan.

Are the front and rear fenders set at the same height in relation to the frame? They aren't on the H2, so this method doesn't work when it comes to leveling an H2. Not sure if the same applies to the H3.

[Big Dad]

Are the front and rear fenders set at the same height in relation to the frame? They aren't on the H2, so this method doesn't work when it comes to leveling an H2. Not sure if the same applies to the H3.

Right. I agree. A few posts back (same thread) I provided him with some numbers that I measured on mine, since it "appears" level and I have the same install.

Sorry, trick or treaters.

I got 23 3/4" on the front and 24 1/2" on the back. More importantly it appears dead on level.

It could have settled a bit.

No fricken popping noise either.

Hummer, Ford, Toyota...H1, H2, or H3...the method is, what it is. 24 1/2 - 23 3/4 = 3/4, I have found a difference of 3/4ths of an inch between the front and back "axel to fender" measurements. Meaning, when the vehicle measures 3/4" lower in the front, it appears level.

I got my Truxxx leveling kit installed today by a GM dealer. It is was installed to the exact height that the directions said bit it now seems as if the rear is lower that the front. What can I do to remedy this. Add a leaf to the rear possibly?

My point was, measuring the axel to fender distance might assist him in finding out how much space he would have to compensate for, in response to, his original question of "What can I do?". Hell, once he figures out how much higher or lower, the front actually is when it appears level it's a downhill, decision as to what to do. He could theoretically let enough air out the tires (front or back) to get a visual once he figures out how much "distance" he has to compensate for, in order to acquire the 3/4 inch difference. Obviously he would have to air the tires back up after trying to drive it again! But he would be well aware of how much money/effort to put into the discrepancy of "front too high!"

I hope that makes sense to you, I'd really like to get started on this bottle of "Friday Night" Scotch!

It takes to much effort to think, type, and communicate about thoughts from 2 days ago!

[joedirt]

I had the same problem with my truck after the Truxx kit was installed. I also has some minor popping in the front end. There were some postings that explained that you could loosen the rear shackle at the leaf while on a floor jack, lower the rear and then tighten the bolt. This will probably give you that 1/2 inch. Some guys did it for the same correction. I just ditched the Truxxx kit altogether and purchased the Bilstein Cognito Leveling shocks. Yankee you can do one of the following:

Option 1: Crank down the t-bars a bit, about 1/4 inch, but u do not necessarily have to get another alignment bc the front end alignment should still be to spec.

Option 2: You can buy the rear shackles or the add-a-leafs to lift the rear, no alignment would be needed.

Option 3: Do the above on the stock rear shackles and get the 1/2 inch.

Here is a pic of mine with the Cognitos. Oh, and the front will settle in. I had to adjust my t-bars many times inbetween test drives. My front was sitting perfect at 24 1/4, I am now about 24 1/8.

[Big Dad]

Another issue with add-a-leafs for the H3, is that with a spring-under configuration, you'll actually be decreasing your clearance at the u-bolts. I added shackles a while back (http://www.elcovaforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=28707), and along with some other suspension upgrades, the truck rides and handles better than stock IMO. Plus there is added articulation in the back - not much, but every bit helps. ;)

Thanks for explaining that, after I read your first statement I was confused over the crappy ride thing.

How is an AAL any less "ghetto" than a shackle lift? And you'll likely end up with a crappy ride.

I don't think either is ghetto. That was my point. ;) But they're both cheap ways of getting a little lift.


I'm curious as if Y31 tries Joe's method and even more curious about the results.

Keep us in the loop.

[Agriv8r]

Just throw a 9000lb whinch on the front and she will be sitting pretty!

wasn't a heavy wench suggested earlier in this thread....:clapping:

[Big Dad]

wasn't a heavy wench suggested earlier in this thread....:clapping:

You are correct sir!

As a matter-of-fact I suggested using a wench to solve this anomaly!

$hit, I did it again...anyways, um just get yourself a big old fat chick, usually found at Mike's Jersey subs and cruise her around for a couple of days! Make sure she rides up front!

[YANKEES31]

Well I ordered the shackles. I'll see if it does the trick and let everyone know

[YANKEES31]

Here is a better pic

http://jneumann.smugmug.com/photos/217242127-L.jpg

[joedirt]

Does this make you feel any better Jared? This is my friends H3 with the ready lift. You can clearly see the front end is higher than the back.

[YANKEES31]

Must be those Moto Metal 951's

[joedirt]

Too Funny! I didn't even recognize that till you said it.

[YANKEES31]

Well I ordered the shackles from Samco on Friday and the order is still in "pending" status when I log in. I emailed them and called them but got no response for each.

I think I am going to order the 35's now.