cheapest and safest temporary levelling method?

[mush's 99]

I am buying new wheels and tires (35 x 12.5 r 20) and would like to lift the front of the truck so I could mount them for the time being until I buy a 4 inch lift. I was wondering if these mini leaf packs from Truxxx or Donahoe are safe. It seems they are basically a block and from what I've heard thats pretty unsafe on the front of a leaf sprung vehicle. I have a set of old leafs lying around and was wondering I could make something out of those.
The other option I was considering is making a set of drop shackles as I work at a metal fabrication plant. It seems simple and at the end of it I could keep them in case I wanted to go a few inches higher in a couple years. Is there more to making them than meets the eye or does anyone advise against it. Let me know what you guys think
Thanks

[jc-diesel]

You can get a set of shackles off ebay to raise your front end up about 2" for around $70 bucks. I've got a set on my truck along with a 4" lift and it rides good and there easy to install.

[4everlearning]

They are easy to make. just keep in mind that if you want 2" of lift you have to make them 4" longer then stock. 3" lift = 6" longer and so on

[alabamafrog]

Here is a pic of the front hanger brackets I made for mine, been running them for 3-4 years and they work and look great.

[Fishin Mike]

I went to my local spring shop and he was able to rearch my springs as well as add a leaf to get my front end up. I am running 325's on 20's and they should be the same height as yours. The whole deal was $250.

Some stated the ride would be rougher and I really can't tell a difference. My tire guy did have to knock a touch off on the lower corner of the bumper(metal) and just cut a slant on the plastic and I have no rubbing.

[4everlearning]

Originally Posted by Fishin Mike

My tire guy did have to knock a touch off on the lower corner of the bumper(metal) and just cut a slant on the plastic and I have no rubbing.

Looks a bit nicer and more factory if you just space the bumper out about an inch.