I am wondering what to do for my rear suspension. I am going to lift my 1988 pickup 4 inches this summer and I am not sure whether I should get blocks or repacement springs. I have always been told that replacement springs are better, but I have been doing some reading and everybody says that replacement springs have a horrible ride. I don't mind having a little rougher if I get better flex but I don't want a tractor either. I don't mind paying a little extra for the springs if they really are better. Does anybody have 4" replacement springs on a pickup? What should I get?

 

I dont have the springs but from ALL of the previous posts I have read threw, I would say that 90% of the people with lift springs say they love them and that they prefer the little rougher ride for the quality and flex that the springs will get you. I would personally go with the springs.

 

New springs are the best option:
= http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/ForSale/...es.shtml#FAQ14

Most of the major Toyota parts retailers have a 4" spring of one sort or another, just need to decide if you want a simple bolt-on set (like Superflift, etc.) or a longer set such as Marlin, AllPro, Trail Gear have or if you want a custom set like Alcan or Deaver.

 

Replacement springs all the way. If you are really concerned with having a ride that is too stiff then go for a longer set. A longer set will also give you more flex off-road. I would recommend Marlin or WabFab. I have a buddy that went with a Trail Gear set and had nothing but problems.

 

Thanks, I will go for the replacement springs, I was thinking skyjacker. I don't have enough money to convert over to the longer springs.

 

if you are going with a 4inch may i recommend the 4inch procomp stage 2 rear lifts its a true 4inch spring

 

Springs are generally preferred over blocks because they tend to have less axle wrap than lift blocks. (longer lever arm with the lift blocks)

You will probably need longer shackles with 4 inch lift springs.

Spring hangers are what $30? Save your money a little longer and buy long springs and new front mounts if you are concerned about ride quality and articulation.

 

or if not then u can go cheap and buy them 63" chevy leaf spring at the Junk yard like me and put it on ur truck with 3-4" block. By doing that it well ride better & smooth and gives u more flex.

 

one more question. I don't have my truck in front of me and I won't until I get home in August. How can I tell if I have the 2.5 rear u-bolts or the 3.25 without looking at it? it is a 1988 regular cab short bed, 4 cyl, 4x4, 5 speed.

 

That rear axle should have the ~3" OD axle tube.