Old Coot

Old Coot here Regarding the Ranger rear spring setup, I'm installing on the 49 1B1. I added additional steel to the bottom of the forward spring brackets, to keep the alignment of the spring eyes in the same location. Rear shackle brackets fit nicely to the new location, but the existing frame looked weak , due to the rear bumper mounting holes, so added reinforcement plates to the inside of the frame. I'm installing a Ford 8.8 out of a Explorer, so removed all mounting brackets. Ordered all necessary Weld On spring perches, U bolts and Shock mounting Brackets. It looks like I will have two issues with the change. Even though I had planned on the change of spring width from 1.75 in to 2.5 in. , I did not plan on the increased depth of the Ranger brackets to the frame. Still waiting on components to verify dimensions, but first look says I will be very tight to the brake mounting hardware on the rear of Disc brake housing. Also the u bolts will be very close to where the 8.8 axle housing starts "necking " down in size. Adding a welded stop block to keep the U bolts in position could be required. 2nd Item (possibly more manageable) is wheel clearance to spring. I can add wheel spacers to alleviate this problem or play with Wheel back spacing. So waiting for purchased components. I'll install and see what needs to be modified and if It can be done keeping safety in mind.

49 B1 Here Also unhappy with Rear springs especially the rear shackle. Just bought a Ranger rear spring setup. Thinking Ranger will be closest truck to the Pilothouse in this size range. Springs on Pilot House are 26 in front and 26 in to rear so Ranger is 25 7/8 to front 31 in to rear. Shackles Same length. Lots of real estate out back. Major difference is spring depth on Ranger is 6 1/2 where Pilot house is 7 1/2 So should set lower. Rear perch will fit nicely out back Metal is pretty "holey" so I will add plate to inside frame to stiffen this area. Front perch is the problem. Need to add additional material to lower part of bracket and corresponding holes as the upper portion of the Ranger perch needs to be cutoff. So thinking 3/16 plate approx. 7 1/2 x 6 in and remove a "vee" section so the bracket fits close enough to weld and the modified bracket will fit flat on the side of the frame. Grind out and remove existing rivets on cross member. Add Grade 8 bolts with locknuts and Loctite. Remove any additional interference to new modified front ( or) Rear perches I'm hoping this setup will give me options for the 2.5 std. springs, I wouldn't have using the 1 3/4 in original. and a much stronger suspension to mount an 8.8 rear axle. Just started this project this week so need to purchase some steel. Just started the complete truck so it will be awhile before it becomes road worthy. Wish me luck.