New guy need shackle advice

R

rmally

New member
Folks,

I just bought my first scout 800...a 1967 V8. The PO has put 6" shackles on the front and rear and was running 33's.

I basically can't drive it as the steering is all over the place. I am not going to be off roading the Scout just mainly pavement and going across the farm grass.

I need to know if going with a 4" shackle will help with the steering or should I just get the stock 3" replacements....in other words will the 4" be that noticable over the 3". Of course I will also be assessing other componets of the steering (not placing all the blame on the shackles).

I have already ordered new wheels and tires. I will be running 30's for tires on 15x8 rims.

Thank you.
 
If you go with 30" tires, I would go with the stock length shackles. If the PO did not install caster shims or do a cut and turn when he installed the long shackles, you are probably running about 4 degrees negative caster, which will cause the wandering/death wobble you are experiencing. Search caster on this site and you will find all kinds of information. Wouldn't be surprised if you end up running 2 degree shims in the front. Enjoy your new scout once you fix the steering issue.
 
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Thank you, I appreciate the advice. I'll do a search for caster and start doing some homework. Thanks again.
 
Long shackles could just be magnifying another problem..... Worn tie rod & drag link ends. Or even booty fabbed steering.

Got pictures?
 
Thanks for the input.....Here's some pictures. My new 15x8 wheels will be here Thursday and I'm going with 30x9.5R15 tires. My new 4" shackles will be here next Monay (Thanks IH parts America) and I'll get those installed next Tuesday.

Hopefully that will improve it enough to actually enjoy driving it wothout fear of wandering across traffic. If it doesn't make any diffence then I guess its back to the drawing board with tie rods, linkage etc......

Whats ya'lls thought on the photos? Do you see anythng that might raise some concern.
 
The new shackles should help.
Old ones look almost vertical (close to 180*), you want them in the 130* to 160* range.

While you have it apart, check & possibly replace shackle & spring bushings.

Not sure if you get new bolts/nuts with the shackles, but if you don't get rid of the lock washers & use lock nuts.
 
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