I replaced the rear driveshaft a while back and added adjustable upper control arms to realign the pinion angle. Now the rear springs have started bowing such that the driver's side spring is rubbing against the trackbar bolt/nut. I'm having the spring perches reset back on top on Friday. There is already a slight rake - maybe a 1/2" - and I'm assuming that's only gonna get worse when the springs are sitting correctly. I have the SJ 5" (on the 2-dr) lift and am wondering if I add some spacers to the front to correct the rake, what is going to be the negative? Will I lose travel/articulation? Do I need to realign? Etc.

Is there another alternative? Replace the rear springs w/ another company's that are shorter? Replace all 4 springs with shorter and add the spacer? Don't worry about it?

Any suggestions? Thanks in advance.

 

That won't be an issue to add a small spacer in the front. You may have to adjust your drag link, but that is relatively easy. It will reduce your down travel, but increase your up travel assuming you don't have to adjust your bump stops. Personally I prefer to have more down travel than up travel as it reduces your chance of roll over... But its not that much of a difference that you should worry about it.

Just my 2 cents.

 

So you don't think that shorter springs (maybe 4" lift springs) in the rear would be better? I really don't know and maybe it won't be as bad as I'm anticipating. But just trying to prepare myself for what may need to happen. I suppose I should really just wait and see.

 

It just depends on how much lift you want... if you want a true 5" lift, keep the 5" lift... if its to high for your taste... go with the 4" in the rear.

If you off road and have a auto... you will have to worry about your front driveshaft boot tearing. Also, just 5" of lift in general is harder on your suspension and drive shafts and you will have to replace them sooner than later.