Introduction
The Belltech 6002 Rear Block Kit is designed to lower the rear of your vehicle by increasing the distance between the leaf spring and the axle. This kit utilizes high-quality extruded aluminum blocks, which offer superior strength compared to cast or steel alternatives. The kit includes all necessary components for installation, such as blocks, U-bolts, Nyloc nuts, and washers. This manual provides essential information for proper installation, maintenance, and safe operation of your Belltech lowering kit.
Image: Belltech Lowering Blocks banner featuring a lowered black pickup truck on a track, highlighting the product's purpose.
Safety Information
Always prioritize safety when working on your vehicle. Improper installation can lead to vehicle damage or serious injury. If you are not confident in your mechanical abilities, it is recommended to seek professional installation.
- Ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands on a level surface before beginning any work.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and gloves.
- Do not work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
- Refer to your vehicle's service manual for specific torque specifications and procedures.
- After installation, perform a thorough inspection of all components and test drive the vehicle carefully.
Package Contents
Verify that all components listed below are present in your Belltech 6002 Rear Block Kit before beginning installation. If any parts are missing or damaged, contact Belltech customer support.
- Extruded Aluminum Lowering Blocks (2)
- U-bolts (4)
- Nyloc Nuts (8)
- Washers (8)
Image: Components of the Belltech Lowering Block Kit, including blocks, U-bolts, nuts, and washers, alongside a lowered vehicle.
Installation Instructions
This section outlines the general steps for installing the Belltech 6002 Rear Block Kit. Specific vehicle models may require slight variations. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for detailed procedures.
- Prepare Vehicle: Park the vehicle on a level surface. Engage the parking brake. Loosen the rear wheel lug nuts.
- Lift and Support: Safely lift the rear of the vehicle using a floor jack and support it securely with jack stands placed under the frame rails, ensuring the rear axle can hang freely. Remove the rear wheels.
- Support Axle: Place a jack under the rear axle to support its weight.
- Remove Existing U-bolts: Carefully remove the nuts from the existing U-bolts that secure the leaf springs to the axle. Remove the U-bolts and any factory blocks or shims.
- Install Lowering Blocks:
- Position the Belltech lowering block between the leaf spring and the axle pad.
- Important: Some lowering blocks, including certain Belltech models, may have a built-in taper for driveline angle correction. Ensure the block is oriented correctly. If a taper is present, the thicker end typically faces the front of the vehicle to correct the pinion angle. Incorrect orientation can lead to driveline vibrations. Refer to the specific instructions included with your kit for taper orientation.
- Install New U-bolts: Place the new Belltech U-bolts over the leaf spring and around the lowering block and axle. Ensure the U-bolts are properly seated.
- Secure Components: Install the washers and Nyloc nuts onto the new U-bolts. Hand-tighten them initially.
- Lower Axle and Torque: Slowly lower the vehicle's axle onto the leaf springs and blocks. Once the vehicle's weight is resting on the suspension, torque the U-bolt nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque settings (typically found in your vehicle's service manual or Belltech's specific instructions). Torque in a crisscross pattern to ensure even clamping force.
- Reinstall Wheels: Reinstall the rear wheels and torque the lug nuts to factory specifications.
- Final Inspection: Lower the vehicle completely. Bounce the rear of the vehicle a few times to settle the suspension. Re-check all fasteners for tightness.
Image: Detailed view of Belltech lowering blocks and U-bolts, essential components for installation.
Operation and Performance
Once installed, the Belltech 6002 Rear Block Kit will lower the rear ride height of your vehicle. This modification can alter the vehicle's center of gravity and handling characteristics. Drive cautiously after installation to familiarize yourself with the new vehicle dynamics. The extruded aluminum construction ensures durability and strength for reliable performance.
Maintenance
Regular inspection and maintenance are crucial for the longevity and safety of your lowering kit.
- Initial Check: After the first 50-100 miles of driving, re-check the torque on all U-bolt nuts. Suspension components can settle, requiring re-tightening.
- Periodic Inspection: Annually, or every 10,000 miles, inspect the lowering blocks, U-bolts, and nuts for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Ensure all fasteners remain tight.
- Cleaning: Keep the suspension components free from excessive dirt and debris.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues after installing your Belltech 6002 Rear Block Kit, consider the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Driveline Vibrations | Incorrect pinion angle due to improper block orientation (if tapered). | Re-check the orientation of the lowering blocks. If tapered, the thicker end should typically face the front of the vehicle. Consult Belltech's specific instructions for your kit. |
| U-bolts too short | Vehicle-specific variations in axle tube diameter or leaf spring pack thickness. | The provided U-bolts are designed for common applications. If they are too short for your specific vehicle, longer U-bolts of the correct diameter and thread pitch will be required. Ensure they are automotive-grade. |
| Uneven Lowering | Improper installation or pre-existing suspension issues. | Verify that both blocks are installed correctly and all U-bolts are torqued evenly. Inspect other suspension components for wear or damage. |
Specifications
- Model Number: 6002
- Material: Extruded Aluminum
- Lowering Increment: Designed for specific lowering increments (e.g., 1, 2, 3, or 4 inches, depending on the specific block height). This kit is a general "Rear Block Kit" so the exact drop isn't specified in the model number, but the description mentions these options.
- Dimensions (approximate): 33.02 x 10.16 x 10.16 cm (13 x 4 x 4 inches)
- Item Weight (approximate): 1.36 kg (3 lbs)
- Components: Lowering Blocks, U-bolts, Nyloc Nuts, Washers
Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information regarding your Belltech 6002 Rear Block Kit, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official Belltech website. For technical support or assistance with installation, contact Belltech customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Note: Belltech is a registered trademark of Belltech. All rights reserved.