Is it as simple as it seems? Just unbolt the the 4 u-bolts and the two bolts holding the ends of each of the leaf packs... is that correct? Do I need to jack up the rear axle? Anything else to look out for?

 

It is pretty much that simple. If you're using lift springs you'll also want to get longer shocks and brake lines.

Jack up your rig and put jack stands under the frame so the suspension can droop all the way. Yes, put stands under the axle also so it's not trying to roll forward or backward, and so you don't over stretch your brake line.

 

It sure helps to have an extra set of hands. It's not always easy to line everything up so make sure you have a BFH.

 

Taking something apart seems to always be the easiest part.

Going back will have some additional issues. Gettting the leaf pack to drop back on that pin will prove to be somewhat more difficult. I had to use a chain hoist to pull the pack back inboard enough to line it up to drop back down. Seems they want to pivot out some when hanging "free".

Other than that, it wasn't too bad. Putting an AAL in requires several large C clamps and an alignment punch. Lots of sweat, hammering, and tugging.

 

I agree with all of the above as I just did an AAL several weeks ago and had never done one before. Plan on 3-4 hours of manual labor, some knuckle busting, some swearing, spraying WD40 or its equivalent, and being tired when you get through. Not hard, just work. Make sure you do have the large C-clamps and chock the tires up so you don't roll away as the break lines are off. There are several good write-ups on TTORA and one by Cornbred floating around too (it was the best one IMO).

 

I'm just replacing my stock leaf packs with another stock leaf pack. Just wondering if there was anything I should look out for is all.