Newbie here.....,..retired drag racer. Donna lost her foot to a farm tractor in '011, so ended 52 year drag race career. I am in twilight years.........need to leave her with low mile ride.....replacing '97 GMC, 256,000 mile old mans truck with '18 GMC 27,000 mile old mans truck. However, it is 5" too tall to get into my heated/ACd garage with the topper on. Topper a must. Strictly a paved road driver.

I dislike the 17" tires/wheels. Far too expensive for the 1" gain to replace them........

I looked at the rear spring shackle, I think I can get 3.5 there by extending it.??? I suspect someone may make a multiple hole replacement shackle just for this.??? I have not investigated/shopped for such.

Am I seeing a spacer under the rear spring.?? Can it be removed?? Question in my mind is there a clearance hole in the welded on pad underneath that for the springs center bolt head.?? Might gain 1" there.

Now, the over load spring....desperation here........taking it out will gain its thickness....LOOKS like 5/8.?????? Then the snubber is getting a bit close to the axle..
Message:

Local shop showed me a bolt on front end of spring lowering gadget. I dont think I want to go there. However, I can gain another 1' by moving the front bolt in the spring up.......Looks like I will have to raise the front of the bed for drilling access to do that.....?????????

Your suggestions.??? Comments.???

Just found out I do not have a picture of '97 GMC....??????

PJH