I'm installing RC rear shackles and my hitch is keeping me from getting the lower shackle bolt out. I'm trying to avoid removing the hitch so my question is; what would be the easiest way to lower the leaf spring about 8 inches?

 

Take your bottom shock bolts off and pop the shocks off.

 

That will work nicely since I'm replacing the shocks too. I'll give it a shot, thanks.

 

Worked like a charm. Thank you sir.

 

No problem, live and learn.

 

Ditch that sway bar while your there...the rear is worthless...

 

X2 should have mentioned that.

 

I thought it looked really thin for a sway bar. I'm mainly concerned with the shaking that's happening from 50-55 mph. Already had an alignment, multiple wheel balances, RC steering stabilizer and rotations. Now I'm installing new shocks with this lift kit.

 

For me it's begone with that sway bar.
You could consider also moving the lower shock mount up for more clearance under axle and maxing your droop. Use of 1" spacers and longer bolts on top of shock is another adjustment available. Set your shock travel to suit your axle movement. I also highly recommend bump stops, it is a very harsh bottoming without them!
Use a jack stand under your frame (nice shape frame under there by the way) and use your jack to lower down the axle, the spring will follow.
What kind of shackel? Let us have an after pic.
reference to photo: Focus on the shock mount suggestion, ignore the block and wedge, that's a different debate.

 

I actually have a replacement bump stop somewhere that I'm trying to locate while I have it up in the air. Jack is definitely being used:


I'm installing the RC 1.5-2" spacer/shackle kit by the way.

 

Pretty ghetto

 

Care to elaborate on this derogatory response, good sir?

 

It looked like he had stacked lift blocks, I was just thinking to myself, I'd isn't realize I had typed it.