[intheworks]

i gotta 4runner, with a stock gm 60 front. whats the bad about using axle shims if any? I got these aluminum 6 degree shims which would make my pinion angle perfect. should i immiediatle go buy some others and new spring center pins. LAST thing i want is something getting wallowed out and next thing i know my axle is walking away from me!

 

[jesster]

I have used steel shims stitch welded to the spring perch several times with no problems whatsoever.

However, I am very leary of the aluminum degree shims that bolt to the spring pack cracking and being spit out.

 

[intheworks]

the bolt im using is actually a grade 8 bolt, i definently wasnt going to use an aluminum center pin. i think ill be alright. im not using a lift block or anything

 

[jesster]

the bolt im using is actually a grade 8 bolt, i definently wasnt going to use an aluminum center pin. i think ill be alright. im not using a lift block or anything

Never heard of an aluminum center pin... Now that would be really scary

I was referring to using an aluminum shim w/ steel center pin. The aluminum shim can fatigue and crack causing it to get pooped out of the spring pack.

Steel shims are a much safer alternative, IMO.

 

[4x4koko]

go with a steel shim !!

 

[logstomper]

I would say to stay away from shims in the front unless it is an offroad only. i would think it would mess with the caster camber ( i think thats the words i'm looking for) angle and could be harder to steer.

 

[RezoD]

Weird, I was going to post about this topic today too... Anyways:

I'm SAS'ing my Chevy, and I'm using a HP Ford Dana 44, and my pinion angle is too much. It's too high. I don't have the running gear in it right now, but going off of what was in there, I'm probably 2* at least higher than level. I've already had the damned tires toe out and flop the axle (it's not bolted down yet), so my caster is too positive (or is it negative...?). Would it be alright to run a 2-2.5* shim up front just to get my driveline angle back down to level? The truck will see street, but it's not only a street truck.

 

[intheworks]

I would say to stay away from shims in the front unless it is an offroad only. i would think it would mess with the caster camber ( i think thats the words i'm looking for) angle and could be harder to steer.

my runner is offroad only at this point :laughing: but really my steering seems great with just a stock ifs box and no hydro. I shortened my driveshaft and tie rod last night, took the truck out and like i said in this other post i started (oops), it seems my axle is wrapping and wanting to go back and the pinion go up......... making my springs go in the shape of an s. never had this problem with the same springs and my dana 44

gotta fab up a anti wrap bar i guess, new center pins and steel shims. im thinking also that maybe the 6 degree shims is too much??? but idk im not using a lift block or anything. maybe go with steel 3 degree shims

 

[dahoyle]

I would say to stay away from shims in the front unless it is an offroad only. i would think it would mess with the caster camber ( i think thats the words i'm looking for) angle and could be harder to steer.

Hmmm, good point, unless you are using the shims to correct a caster problem.
As far as aluminum shims. DON'T USE THEM