When we started, the truck had the stock rear springs and Rancho RS5000 shocks.
We started by modifying the rear spring mounts and swapping over to modified Mazda 2WD spring packs to obtain the lift and articulation we wanted. A new pair of spring mounts ('85 model pieces) was purchased from Toyota, and welded onto the frame just in front of the original spring mounts. The holes in the newly added mounts (red arrow) were drilled to accommodate 5/8" grade 8 bolts.
Some leaves were cut at each end to progressively stagger the leaves in the pack. Spring rate and lift can be adjusted by mixing and matching various leaves.  Next, RS9012 shocks were to be added. A new upper mount was built and welded to the round crossmember that connects the two frame rails. 3/4" Grade 8 bolts were inserted through and welded to a 3/8" piece of flat bar. Photo shows the new upper shock mounts welded in place. The tops of the shocks are closer together and the shocks lay down at more of an angle. At this point, the stock shocks are still in place.  This photo shows a quick trial fit of the rear shocks prior to deciding on placement of the track bar setup. To control rear axle wrap, we fabricated a two-link track bar. The bar is constructed from 1" x 1" x 1/8" square tube. The single forward eye is a 5/8" rod end (heim joint) and the two rear eyes are shock eyes with poly bushings. These are sleeved and use 1/2" mounting bolts.  The forward end of the track bar mounts to the horse collar frame crossmember through a short shackle. The braced shackle was made from flat bar and it rides on poly bushings.  The rear axle mount was constructed using 3/16" plate and is contoured to wrap around the upper and rear portions of the pumpkin. The boxed mount is welded in place on the axle housing. The track bar is inserted into and bolted to this rear mount. The photo below shows the latest track bar in use on my truck. The track bar we fabricated for Sam's truck is very similar. However, it is slightly shorter and uses only one cross bar.  If you modify your suspension using some of these ideas, or others of your own, please let me know the results of your work. I'm interested in any refinements or other ideas you may have discovered. Thanks........Jay Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/OffRoadDotCom
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