DIY Shackle flip

[ericpost]

Guys I'm just about ready to install my shackle flip from DIY. I plan on mounting them on the opposite sides so I can install 56" springs. Doing so has slight hole alignment issues. Basically I just need to hog out the existing frame holes a bit more BUT that seems to create a week point.

The DIY kit sends backing plates for the mount kit but that in itself does not solve the strength issue.

The 2 options I see are:
1) Weld some steel in on the back side of the frame and drill new holes
or
2) Hog out the frame holes and spot weld the backing plates to the frame once mounted

What I don't really understand is the stress that is put on the mount points at the frame, it seems like it should be high. I'd hate to go with option 2 and tear the frame but option 1 is adding 5 points to the "what a ***** factor" given the tight quarters, measurements, and additional drilling.

What do you think or what have you guys done? I'm leaning towards option 1 and would probably use some 1/8th flat stock.

FYI:
The DIY stuff makes the factory stuff look pretty flimsy!

[ericpost]

Went with Option 2.

The distance between the frame ranges from 3.5" to 4", The distance between the mounting holes is 3". The backing plates are 1.25 inches wide....

There is not alot of front to back force on the shackle mounts due to the shackles...duh. So spot welding the backing plates should offer plently of protection. I actually don't think it is really needed but I might as well over engineer it while I'm in there. Plus if I ever need to drop the mounts I won't need to worry about the gas tank again since I know the backing plates won't move.

[justcuz]

Even if you hogged the holes and sandwiched the frame with the backup plate and used good self locking hardware (grade 8), you should be fine. Like you say most force is up and the DIY bracket wraps under the frame to support that.

[justcuz]

Woops! I take it back, just looked at mine and they don't wrap under the frame. That is and improvement I am gonna make to mine! Sorry bout that!

[ericpost]

Originally Posted by justcuz

Woops! I take it back, just looked at mine and they don't wrap under the frame. That is and improvement I am gonna make to mine! Sorry bout that!

Mine wrap under the frame....

[justcuz]

When did you buy yours? I've had mine for about a year and they did not fit on the original application I bought them for, so they are going on my older truck.

[ericpost]

Originally Posted by justcuz

When did you buy yours? I've had mine for about a year and they did not fit on the original application I bought them for, so they are going on my older truck.

Just bought them. Check out DIY you can see they are L shaped mounts