Holbrook Longleafs

I'm running Holbrook Longleafs on my 75. I ran my Jeep up on some blocks yesterday without shocks to take shock length measurements. The front end didn't flex like I expected. I measured between shock mounts 1" compression and 1" droop with approximately 4" between axle and bump stop at compression. The rear springs flexed better with 2" compression and 2" droop. I have my shackle bolts tightened to 18 ft/lbs, main spring hangers at 65 ft/lbs. My shackles are positioned vertically with static load.

Did the rear springs flex more since the weight of the vehicle shifts rearwards as I climb the blocks? I would really like to see more flex/droop on the front end, but I am thinking that these measurements might be different if the Jeep nose was pointed down. This is my first suspension modification so any advice is helpful.

Here are some pics of it flexed the best I could with what I have laying around:








Here are static pics of the shackle angles:

 

First thing I see is the shackles should have some angle outward.
In theory, the most movement would set the shackle flat (straight out) when the spring is flat. This flat shackle may not be the most pratical but should give you a starting point, I'm going to guess 25ish deg angle at rest would work well.

 

I talked to Holbrook, they told me that since the springs are brand new, they will settle and produce a better shackle angle and more flex once they have been used for a while.

 

Yup. True of any spring, especially leaf springs. Once they break in I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at how well they work and ride compared to other lift springs.

 

Howdy, are those propane bottles in the cargo area?
Is there something sturdy behind the seats to keep them there in a very sudden stop?

 

I don't think those propane bottles are going anywhere. Each bottle is held tightly in place with double steel adjustable clamps. The front clamp has a hardened steel pin that fits into a hole in the collar of the tank. The clamps are bolted to steel plates beneath the tub with grade 8 bolts.