Front Leaf Spring Caster Shim Install

[Richard]

The most secure method is to get caster shims that bolt onto the spring pack with the center pin. They are available. Just looked at some spring shims I recently purchased for another use and they have the smaller hole for attachment to the pack.

Add with edit- The Skyjacker 8" lift springs I used on my last truck had the shims pre-installed on the front leafs to alleviate driveline angle. The decreased positive caster was a compromise I had to live with. Are you trying to increase caster, yes do it. There should be no problem with the CV clearance or driveline angle with the 2.5" springs. IMO if you are installing the shims to angle pinion up for the driveline, there is no reason to do it. After install of springs jack up truck put on stands and let axle hang. If driveshaft spins freely you are good to go.

[CJM72]

Originally Posted by Richard

The most secure method is to get caster shims that bolt onto the spring pack with the center pin. They are available. Just looked at some spring shims I recently purchased for another use and they have the smaller hole for attachment to the pack.

Add with edit- The Skyjacker 8" lift springs I used on my last truck had the shims pre-installed on the front leafs to alleviate driveline angle. The decreased positive caster was a compromise I had to live with. Are you trying to increase caster, yes do it. There should be no problem with the CV clearance or driveline angle with the 2.5" springs. IMO if you are installing the shims to angle pinion up for the driveline, there is no reason to do it. After install of springs jack up truck put on stands and let axle hang. If driveshaft spins freely you are good to go.

Thanks Richard. Yes I'm trying to increase caster to improve the handling. A few board members have done this with these small lifts and reported improved tracking and less 'dartiness'. I considered buying a different shim that just bolts on, but I have every thing apart and not sure I want to wait. I do have washers that fit the center bolt and the OD fits the slot on the shim almost exactly. I have to imagine that once bolted in with the U bolts, this shim won't move around. But I've been wrong before!