Shackle length

[Slim84]

I know it is more cost efective to make your own shackles but I'm sort of affraid to do it. But weather i buy them or make them what is the best all around size. If i do make them what type of metal and what is the difficulty.
Maybe some one could psot me some pics?

[MO_4Runner]

Are you talking about front or rear shackles? Do you have stock springs?

My front are made out of 1/4" stainless plate. Made with a break at steel shop a buddy runs.
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y147/alarose41/100_0034.jpg

My rears are made out of 1/4" steel plate.
These aren't a great example since i had to make them boomerang to compensate for 56" springs.
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y147/alarose41/100_0006.jpg

[84toy]

MO_4runner,what kind of steering arm are you running?

[toy4x4]

shackles are easy to make. they are just 2 plates. make them out of 1/4" or 3/8" x 2" flat bar. mine are 5 1/2" eye to eye. i've seen 1/4" shackles bend so 3/8" is probrably a better choice. fronts can be made by bending the plates or using washers on either side of the leaf spring. all pro sells aluminum shims to take the place of a bunch of washers.

[jltoy]

Yes Mo what kind of steering arm is on the right side of that drag link?
Shakles are easy to make I used 1/4x2" plate and have not had any problems yet.

[MO_4Runner]

One that we made in here. It's the typical 2 pass arms welded together. I'm not worried about it breaking like some are, it very beefy.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y147/alarose41/100_0033.jpg

[Slim84]

I have stock springs front and rear