shackle reversal and SOA?????

You guys talk about a lot of things that I don't understand, but I try to figure it out, and sometimes I do. But I can't figure out what y'all mean by "shackle reversal" and "SOA". Can someone enlighten me please?

 

SOA is Spring Over Axle lift. It is used as a lift kit, by taking the springs from under the axle and putting them on top. Most full size trucks are set up that way.

Shackle Reversal is when the shackle on the front axle is moved to the rear of the spring. It was a stock set up on Jeeps about 1956. It helps make the ride a little softer because as you go over bumps the axle will tend to move rearward like the axle. It may also give some lift and move the axle forward slightly.

Others here will likely give some more info.

 

OK, I think I understand now, thanks!

Now, keep in mind that my chassis is standing up on the drivers side, crammed against the wall and buried in crap, and these photos have been flipped over upside down. Here's two shots of my front driver's side spring mounts, is this what you mean by reversed shackles? This is a '56 chassis.

 

Allrighty then! Thanks guys!

 

Why is that done?

 

It improves the ride. By placing the shackles at the rear of the front springs, they follow a more natural motion when going over bumps, etc.

Ron- you are one of the lucky ones... factory reversal!

 

You know, as far as my Jeep goes, I HAVE been lucky! Not so much in life though. Of course, I haven't driven it in about 29-30 years....I think the last time I actually did drive it was about 1976, when my dad found out I was 4-wheeling with it at the old shale pits south of town! I remember the steering was freaky way back then.

 

Greg,

The reason it follows a more natural motion is because now both sets of springs (front and rear) have their shackles in the rear and so both springs flex in the same direction. It really does smooth out the ride and it's not all that difficult, especially if you want to go to Wrangler springs.

Mike