Ford Performance 2021+ F-150 Lowering Shackles Released

[FirstFord]

If "1 unit" is 1 pair, then I was confused.

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[Beastean]

Yep, the "each" refers to the kit: two shackles, bushings, and grease fitting.

 

[oneinch]

I agree with Beastean. $215 for a pair (as in two) of lowering shackles. The terminology in the listing is less than clear. Sold in units each: Each (1). Everything else in the listing indicates two shackles. Two shackles are pictured. As Beastean pointed out: shipping weight is 6.55 lbs. This would be one super heavy shackle. It's a kit. You need two so a kit wouldn't be one. The listing says:

• Kit includes laser-cut steel lowering shackles with urethane bushings

Shackles and bushings. The words are plural. So, are we all good now? The kit is two shackles. The price of the kit is $215. It doesn't cost $430 for two shackles.

 

[FirstFord]

I accept the points made regarding how many comprise a purchase. That being said, I will say that Ford's nomenclature is wrong. In my opinion, "Unit" should be described as 1 pair, and not "1" or "Each".

True, the new argument ($215.00 vs. $95.73) is not as dramatic as the original $430.00 + shipping vs. $95.73 + free shipping, but I think the point remains. My original post was speculating that Ford is still grappling with determining costs, and costs determine sell price. I think that may still be the case. To be clear, in no way do I expect Ford's price to be $95.73 (aftermarket has always been cheaper than OEM), but Ford's "retail" price is over 100% higher. That's the part that I'm struggling with...

 

[mredwin25]

they look identical to the previous gen shackles, I installed previous gen on my 21 fx4 and they worked perfectly, shimmed the diff no issues. Bushings came pre installed and greased from ford. Nothing looks new here, looks like same
kit more money, don’t fall for it

 

[Stealth88]

The shims are tapered and install between the leaf pack and the axle to correct pinion angle.

 

[Henfield]

I'd like to see a Before and after pictures.

I read the Ford site as having to buy two kits. Whoever does their website sucks.

 

[Babbage]

My comments were based upon the Ford Performance website:

"Retail $215.00"
"Sold in Units of Each (1)"

I don't know how else to read that: 1 unit, each, costs $215.00

1 Each with Ford means you get 1 of everything in the picture. (so a whole set) Why would you purchase only 1 side?

I have been thinking about getting it, and unlike aftermarket it won't void my warranty.
We went camping recently and with the truck loaded it sat perhaps 1/2" lower in the rear...

 

[oneinch]

There's no reason to believe that warranty on the truck will be at risk for using an aftermarket shackle. Using more expensive Ford parts just because is a valid reason. Speak not of warranty fears.

 

[jdoyon4795]

I just got rid of the blocks on my ‘22 yesterday, kept the stock 4x4 u bolts, and I’m very happy with the outcome.

Took 45 min, it was free, my truck still has a marginal amount of rake (which I want) no vibes, same ride. I’ll wait with the cutoff wheel, but honestly the excess threads now under the axle are a moot thing I’ll probably forget about.

While these shackles might be a viable option for some, I’m having a hard time understanding the cost, like others. Better, cheaper options seem east to obtain.

Nate, was the blocks bolted to leaf springs or just sandwich between spring and axle? Loosen U-Bolts and pull them out?

 

[diambo4life]

The blocks are not bolted to the leafs per se, they are just "located in position" on the leaf to prevent fore and aft movement. They are and sandwiched with the help of the ubolts. When you lift the truck via the axle, (after undoing the ubolts) you will be able to lift them out. Easy peezy.

 

[FirstFord]

1 Each with Ford means you get 1 of everything in the picture. (so a whole set) Why would you purchase only 1 side?

Oh, there could be a number of reasons for needeing just one shackle... After installation, a shackle broke, cracked, or otherwise failed, and a replacement is needed. Or it was damaged from an off-roading event, or maybe a car accident. A bushing failed prematurely... I can certainly see circumstances where someone may need/want just one.

 

[FirstFord]

Removing the 4x4 axle blocks...

There have been a few comments and/or observations that this is a "free" modification, and all there is to it is to loosen up the nuts to the U-bolts, remove the blocks, and re-tighten. Everyone is free to do what they want, but I will throw out there that the axle U-bolts and nuts are designated by Ford as a one-time use item, i.e., they are not to be reused. This is due to when the nuts /U-bolts are properly tightened to factory specifications (and tightening sequence), they stretch. If they are loosened, they are supposed to be replaced. Do with this information as you will...

 

[Natetroknot]

Nate, was the blocks bolted to leaf springs or just sandwich between spring and axle? Loosen U-Bolts and pull them out?

As others have said, that’s all there is to it!

And yes, nuts and u bolts are technically one and done hardware.

As Austin Powers liked to say, I live dangerously. My non-scientific, engineering degree-less opinion is that’s because the nuts are nyloc, not from metal fatigue. I’d bet a buffalo nickel the u bolts are made of the same chineseium as the wheel studs.

But that’s my opinion, and thankfully, it’s my truck!

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