If your vehicle has a leaf sprung suspension then it utilizes Ford Explorer Sport Trac hangers and shackles to keep the springs in check. The purpose of Ford Explorer Sport Trac hangers and shackles is to provide a mounting point for your leaf springs that allows the springs to expand and contract as the suspension articulates. This is a week point in many suspension setups and over time hangers and shackles will fatigue and break. Here at Andy's Auto Sport we have a full selection of Ford Explorer Sport Trac hangers and shackles to replace your old worn out units and keep your vehicle running safely down the road. We have the full spectrum from OEM replacement to stronger upgraded units, so no matter what your preference you are sure to find the right hangers and shackles in our vast catalogue.

Hangers and shackles are put under a tremendous amount of stress from lateral twisting forces. This stress is increased if you run larger wheels and tires or you drive your vehicle aggressively. Fortunately many companies make high-performance Ford Explorer Sport Trac hangers and shackles that boast increased strength and durability to handle the added loads from larger rubber. In addition to increased strength, hanger and shackle kits can also allow you to raise or lower your vehicle depending on your needs. So if you want a little added clearance for dirt roads, or want to lower your ride to the ground for a custom look, hangers and shackles are an easy way to go.

Q: What are hangers and shackles? Why buy hangers and shackles?
A: Hangers are the bracket that the front of the leaf spring is bolted to (leaf springs are a main suspension component for the rear end of most trucks). When you buy a new hanger to lower your truck, you are buying a hanger that locates the front half of the leaf spring higher on the frame and therefore lowers your truck. For the geometry of your truck suspension to remain optimal, it is also necessary to change out the shackles to replace your factory ones, which is why hangers and shackles are almost always sold together. Buying hangers and shackles is one of multiple ways to lower the rear of a truck that utilizes a leaf spring suspension setup.

Q: Do hangers and shackles automatically go together, or would you ever use them separately?
A: If you use one without the other, the geometry of your truck's suspension will be skewed, which will result in worsened ride quality and unnecessary wear and tear on your truck's tires and suspension. In most cases, it is best to buy a complete hanger and shackle kit as opposed to just buying one hangers or shackles by themselves.