New leaf spring install question

[JCBond]

I bought new six leaf springs to replace the old five leaf and bought new shackles. When I installed the new leaf I had to pull the shackle forward to get the new leaf to fit. Then I put the axle on and the weight of the back end on the springs and the shackles are still bent forward. Should they be vertical or can they ride like this?

IMG_3054.jpg (90.9 KiB) Viewed 897 times

IMG_3055.jpg (95.4 KiB) Viewed 897 times

[Joe Travers]

The springs will squat when you lower the car on tires. They'll continue to gradually settle and relax where the shackles will be close to perpendicular. The six-pack spring will give you a little more lift in the rear but they don't wrap as easily as the five-pack under acceleration. Less wheel hop.

Joe

[JCBond]

Thanks Joe.