Reversal of a Spring Reversal

[dirtdug]

I am finally finishing up a three year, winter build on my 76 CJ5 i bought as a basket case a few years ago. Great winter project in my shop. The PO had a pile of new parts and the new engine and body were only sitting in the freshly cleaned frame with a 4" spring lift.
Among with the parts was a new Front Spring Reversal kit. I have installed the reversal, along with custom drive shafts, the project is coming to a beautiful completion, but I am realizing the reversal is not going to play well with my 35" radials, and my hooker headers. I am realizing now that clearing the 35' s with a stock suspension would be tough enough, but "with the rearward travel of the axle due to the Spring reversal, during the compression, and making contact with the Headers, getting the required clearance is going to be a challenge.

Available options;

• Smaller Tires (I don't want to, but probably the easiest solution)

• SOA ( Spring Over Axle, I don't want to, but might be a solution.)

• different exhaust and trim fenders ( oh I hate to)
• Geez I wish I could move the front axle forward an inch or so!

My goal was to build a good driver and capable off-roader. This Jeep is looking beautiful and I dread the thought of tearing into it too deeply to make any corrections, but If I have to, I will have to!!


Any suggestions please?

 

[csuengr]

First of all, what you are referring to is a shackle reversal. If you can undo it and put the shackle back in front, do it. Also, it is not a crime to run the exhaust inside the frame.

 

[BusaDave9]

I also have a CJ5 with a shackle reversal with 36 inch tires (had 35" previously). And I also have a problem with the front tires going too far to the rear as the suspension compresses. I cut my fenders quite a bit. I also had trouble with the shocks.
Click here for more info:http://www.jeep-cj.com/forums/f104/busadave9s-79-cj5-13135/#post104332