UDMTITAN said:
Are the shackles you installed the ones that drop the back end back down some? Also wanted to know how the ride is as far as handling goes, I am nervous about a lift because I spend most of my time on freeways at 75+ and still want to be able to maneuver. I know you will loose some cornering with a lift just am spooked. First time I have ever come close to lifting one.
Mine are the Total Chaos Heavy-Duty Shackles, from PRGroducts.com. They lower the rear 3/4", and won't unroll like the stock ones do occasionally when people are off roading. I think they are especially recommended for those that have the larger Deaver 2.5" mini-pak, (mine are the 1.5" Deavers).
With a coilover lift, I think the handling is better. The springs on the coils are stiff enough, that many even remove their sway bar ... gives more independent wheel articulation in the front. I have yet to try this, but with the bars on, it handles great. I drive almost exclusively country roads, with some very curvy sections.
I believe it might have handled the curvy roads a little better when I was just running the DRE coilovers, set to 2", and the PRG modified Bilsteins in the rear, but with the additional component of the PRG 4" Performance Pkg. and the additional inch of lift I wanted it set for, any difference is very slight.
So, I'd recommend at least getting the DRE or SAW stock application versions of the coilovers from PRG, (he specs the SAW's valving. and selects the springs), and the DRE or Bilstein rear shocks. Your truck will handle like a sports car, well at least like a good sedan. This would get your truck level. The Performance Pkg. is good for almost 4" with a 4x4 or 4" for a 2wd, although most 2wds also get a 4" spindle too, (allowing the coilovers to be set without very much preload/lift, since when they are at maximum they are not as smooth). Give Greg a call and he can explain your best options for a given budget.