spring reversal

[joejeepny]

1070794

If a spring reversal(moving the shackles to the rear of the front springs) is such a good idea why did jeep do it with the shackles in the front. Why do some offroaders do it and some dont. I did it to the front of my cj8 and the rides much better especially when hitting a sharp speed bump type bump or approaching a sharp approach angle. :-? [addsig]

 

[jhiggins]

1070797

It is all about making money...It has its pros and cons, Sure
it is better on bumps and inclines because your axle is acctually
moving forwards and backwards in a short cut down version without
getting technical, If I am wrong someone please
correct me. :-O [addsig]

 

[Snitty]

1070818

most will say the pros of outer edge shackles will outweigh the cons[addsig]

 

[MORGSTER]

1070849

joejeepny

Questions.
When you installed the shackle reversal in the front of your CJ8, did you replace anything other than moving the shackles to the back?
Did you replace the stock shackles?
Did you replace the bushings or use the stock ones that were on the Jeep?
Did you install greasable shackle bolts or even lube the existing bushings?

The reason for these questions is that from past experiences I have found that even the simple installation of grease, poly bushings, greaseable bolts, and proper bolt torque will help the ride substantially. Allowing the shackles and springs to move easily, and the installation alone of the shackle reversal system might not improve the ride. (This is a package deal)

The question of why Jeep didn't or doesn't do this at the factory is the "Million Dollar question" of the day. It could have to do with "If it's worked that way fine for years, why change it?" "Cost to change?"or who knows. There are a lot of innovations for all vehicles that you would think manufactures would implement into production. Some of them have. My kid’s favorite was the radio. (LoL)

Why do some offroaders do it and some dont? I can't speak for others, but I liked the idea of not having the shackles sitting out there for rocks to impact head on and the posibility of a smoother ride didn't hurt. I had the ability and time to build my own, did it, installed them and they have worked fine for years without complaints.

This would be an interesting question for any Jeep Historians out there.

By the way Welcome and good first post. :-D [addsig]

 

[joejeepny]

1071244

When I did the spring reversal on my cj8 I also replaced the springs( rancho 2-1/2") , added poly bushings, confer shackles stock lenght, drop pitman arm, stainless brake lines, rancho adjustable shocks(9000's?), rancho double shock mounts upfront, 33 x 15.50 tires, All at once so its hard to say what improved the ride the most. It rides like a sports car on and off the road. I have been driving a CJ-7 for years with this same setup. I felt a greater improvement with the shackle reversal in the CJ-7. I did the shackle reversal after I drove around with a lift and tires. With the axle moving back on the bumps to absorb the shock instead of working against it the short wheelbases chop was greatley reduced improving bump steer and ride quality. I havent done it to my wrangler yet.

Thanks for the welcome.
Great Site![addsig]