K so over the summer i've done a fair bit to my jeep but i still have yet to do a lift. I really want to just start with the back for now for a few reasons: the springs are really startin to sag, and my university budget doesnt quite allow for a full lift at the moment. I've heard that it is possible to install an add a leaf while the pack is still attached to the truck. now my question is: how difficult is this to do? I have a fairly soild mechanical background and pretty much any tool that i could/should need to do the job.
Thanks in advance

Jesse J.

 

its a lil bit of work but its best to just take off all the u bolts and the center pin and put it in there but you dont have to jack up the rear end that far just enough to get the tires about an inch off the ground when there is no pressure on the springs. it shouldnt take long but i would suggest some pb blaster for a week before you get into it

 

If you have some background,tools and time its not too bad. check the "U" bolts that hold the springs to the axle, you need to know 1) if they are long enoughto accomodate another leaf in the stack 2) if they are rusted(will they come apart)
1.jack up the jeep and support with jackstands on frame to let the rear susp hang
2. remove wheels, lower shock mounts
3.support axle and remove "U" bolts (be careful that axle doesn't fall and damage rear flex hose
4.cut or remove center bolt(this holds the leaf pack together) separate leafs
5.install new leaf under the main leaf, install new center bolt
6. re-assemble
Good luck!!

 

Just make sure your carefull while doing it those leafs can pop out of the C clamps and really hurt.

 

what are the pros/cons of aal

 

Pro - cheap, dont have to remove packs

Con - will sag if your springs are badly worn, Rear end may ride stiff

Full packs or much better but AAL will get the job done

 

http://skyjacker.com/image/search/pdf/AAL.pdf

Not really much to it. Get new u-bolts when you reinstall the packs on the axle.