81 F150 shackle bolts

[Raywilson]

Anyone know the size of the rear shackle bolts? I'm replacing the shackles and new bolts would be a smart addition
Ray

[FuzzFace2]

I cant help but if you have the old ones measure them for a size.
Also note I believe there is a difference between 4x2 and 4x4 bolts as the 4x4 springs are wider so what ones do you have?

I would see if a local spring shop has the bolts, take the old to match up to.
If not local shop then McMaster Carr or LMC but the last will be $$$.
Dave ----

[Raywilson]

Im gonna take it to a shop and have them change the shackles. I have a rolling hydraulic jack and I can't lift the rear end high enough to float the tires. It looks pretty simple to change out though. I put some CRC on the threads and the bolts look good.

[Rembrant]

I thought they were 9/16", but I haven't done them for years now...so don't take that as confirmation.

[Raywilson]

Yes and they are x 5 1/2in long. I put a caliper on them.

[mat in tn]

they are simple to replace but often they are so rusted in place you can be very frustrated by the time you get done. use a shop when you need to but the more you can do yourself the more the truck becomes yours

[Raywilson]

The rear of the f150 is really high. The only way I can do it is with a 4x12 on top of my rolling floor jack. Just seems dicey to try. It would be easier that replacing the shocks though. The threads look fine and I put some oil on 4x12 make it easier.

[mat in tn]

certainly, don't do more then you are comfortable with.  jack stands people! use jack stands! if the wheels can stay on for any service, they do in my shop. they already hold it up. but when they must come off, I often slip them under as a secondary jack stand. if I break a wheel or tire but save my skull, I'm good with it!