2.3.3 Shackle reversal
Shackle reversals yield a small increase in lift, but are generally
designed to be more of a geometry change for altered handling characteristics
than to be an actual lift kit. The shackle reversal kit moves the spring
shackle from the front of the front springs to the rear of them, putting
a solid mount at the front of the springs. This usually gives around
2 inches of lift, due to the new spring mounts and shackles; enough
to allow for 225/75 tires. On a stock Samurai, the spring and shackle
setup results in the front axle moving forward on compression and moving
rearward on droop. A shackle reversal reverses this, causing the front
axle to move rearward on compression and forward on droop. This results
in a slightly improved ride since the wheels can more easily roll over
bumps, but it creates numerous compromises. Brake dive and body roll
are greatly increased, since the front axle wants to move rearward under
compression. Tire rub becomes more of an issue for the same reason,
where the tire contacts the rearward portion of the front wheelwell
sooner. The relocated front spring hangers are oftentimes called "fangs"
because they hang so far down below the frame, sometimes causing approach
angle problems in rough terrain. On more extreme off-road trails where
articulation becomes a serious factor, driveshaft separation from droop,
and bottoming out of the slip yoke from compression, can lead to becoming
stuck or experiencing damage, especially to the transfer case. For street
and light-duty off-road use, a truck with a shackle reversal would not
experience these more serious problems, but for more difficult off-road
trails, a custom long-travel front driveshaft is necessary. Shackle
reversals can be welded or bolted on, and are available from around
$250. Since it does not significantly improve articulation or increase
lift, the only significant compromises made compared to a stock setup
(other than the handling differences) are a minor change in the steering
geometry. A shackle reversal can be combined with arched springs or
a SPOA.
