2" block or 2" AAL

[NWJEEPER]

I removed the lift shackle from my XJ because I was getting negative flex with a good sized load. I wanted to replace it with a 2" block. Will this lead to premature spring failure or should I go with the full length AAL. This is with factory springs.

Thanks

[satan]

Go with the AAL -- a block (especially on weak stock springs) will exasurbate the wear rates by loading less of the spring and also complicate any spring-wrap you may have (or get you new wrap) by locating the torque load further from the torque access.

[bigfodee]

Either way isnt really a great option. I've run both setups. The block seemed to be better. The AAL made the ride stiff as hell, and will ruin the other springs as well. The rest of the pack is fighting the AAL, so once the AAL 'tires out' the whole thing is weak. The blocks are going to increase axle wrap which can lead to more breakage. Your best bet is to save a few bucks and buy a whole new pack. Its what I ended up doing. You should try a local shop though. I imagine there's some spring place in town that could get you what you're looking for.

[88xj]

The AAL made the ride stiff as hell, and will ruin the other springs as well. The rest of the pack is fighting the AAL, so once the AAL 'tires out' the whole thing is weak.

I have heard this a lot, but I got a 2in, short, RE add-a-leaf and haven't had a problem with it. And they say that RE is usually harder. I got it used, but it still gave me 2.5in. The ride has also been great. In fact it has been much smoother than a friend of mine's stock rig. Although I do have some pretty soft shocks.

Also it hasn't limited my flex a bit. The shocks are the hold up. Monday I plan on installing some longer shocks so then I'll really be able to tell how well it flexes with the add-a-leaf.

HTH
Doug