Rear axle shifted when installing lift blocks

So I have a problem.... I thought I would install the rear blocks that came with my rough country lift kit myself and my mechanical prowess has led to the axle being shifted a quarter inch to the left and forward of the leaf spring pin. I have no idea how to get it back in place.

So what happened...

I had jack stands on the frame of the truck and I was working one side of the truck at a time. The passenger side tire was still on but I had the driver’s side off. I un bolted the driver side I bolts completely (this is where I went wrong) and started to drop the rear axle with the jack and then all hell broke loose because the rear axle hit the ground which sent me into panic mode. I get the axle jacked back up and to my horror the axle shifted and therefore will not line back up with the leaf spring pin.


I have stuck the U bolts back on and tightened it up just enough so I won’t move anymore but I am scared to drive it anywhere now. I have never messed with leaf spring suspensions before and I’m at a loss. Does anyone have any ideas on how to get it back into alignment? I called around some shops and one guy suggested ratchet straps and a hammer but I’m not entirely sure how I would even do that. I’m a new member and I have been perusing the forums for about a month now and I have yet to find any threads on this issue.

 

Welcome from Texas, sorry to hear your situation, hope you can get it back

 

No matter what you do don’t drive it like that. With the wheels off, the u bolts removed and tension removed from the axle you should be able to reposition the axle to line it up.

 

Loosen up both sides and re-position. Most likely everything shifted being that you let it drop to the ground. You couldn’t of messed up anything too bad it will go back into place.

 

See if this video help some

https://youtu.be/SMqY5deK8I8

 

If you have a ratcheting cargo strap, use it to align the center pin to the axle. Pull the axle forward, backward to align pin.

 

That's what I did, ratchet strap to get mine lined up

 

I also used my 40 lb kettlebell to bump spring into place.

 

So here’s an update:

I drove the car at rolling speed to firestone which is just around the corner from me. I had an appointment with them anyways to get the alignment done. The mechanic was able to get it in place no problem and only charged me the price of the alignment for everything. It was super scary driving it though

 

Glad ya got it fixed

 

THANKS FOR THE RATCHET STRAP IDEA!
Literally saved me inter-cranial hemorrhaging!!!

 

You're welcome!!

 

Does anyone have a zerk alignment chart for 2nd gens?