I was wondering what would be the difference in these set ups if any. Looking forward to your answers.

 

accordingly the 4.5" leaf with shackle will flex better.

the 6.5" leafs are longer than the 4.5" so when compressed if you don't have a longer shackle to take up that length they will bottom out before they compress all the way.

 

the longer shackle would allow for more movement, and thus more flex. 6.5" leafs on stock shackles wont ride very good

 

so the shackles are the way to go ???

 

I agree with them; it's the route I would go.

 

yes. the less arch in the leaf pack the better.

 

if you install the 6.5 leafs ,in the future when you decide to lift more, all you have to do is by the shackles .With the 4.5 and shackles you will have to buy the 6.5 leafe any way ,that to me is a waist of money

 

actually there are other options besides buying the 6.5 leafs. they do make 3"+ lift shackles and theres always shackle relocation brackets to get it at a better angle. all of these increase lift.