Coachbuilder Shackles for Toyota Tundra: Sizes, Lift & Install Guide
Coachbuilder shackles are one of the most popular bolt-on rear-lift upgrades for the Toyota Tundra — they add ground clearance, calm bed bounce, and level out your stance without the harsh ride of lift blocks. This guide covers the sizes, the actual lift each kit delivers, pricing, and installation so you can pick the right shackle for your build.
Short answer: Coachbuilder shackles replace your Tundra’s factory rear leaf-spring shackles with longer ones, lifting the rear of the truck. On the 2007–2021 Tundra (including TRD Pro) the kits run from the +1" shackle (about 0.6" of real lift) up to the +4" shackle (about 2.25" of real lift). They install with basic hand tools, ride smoother than lift blocks, and cost $305–$375 per kit.
Coachbuilder shackle kits for the Toyota Tundra (2007–2021)
All four Coachbuilder shackle kits fit the 2007–2021 Toyota Tundra, including TRD Pro. One important note that trips people up: the “+1 / +2 / +3 / +4” name refers to how much longer the shackle is — not the lift. Because of leaf-spring geometry, the actual rear lift is roughly half that. Here’s how they line up:
| Kit | Actual rear lift | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| +1" Shackle Kit | ~0.625" | Subtle level, daily driving | $305 |
| +2" Shackle Kit | ~1.25" | Most popular — levels a mild front lift | $315 |
| +3" Shackle Kit | ~1.75" | More clearance, load/towing stance | $340 |
| +4" Shackle Kit | ~2.25" | Max rear lift on this platform | $375 |
Shop the popular +2" Coachbuilder kit →
What are coachbuilder shackles?
Shackles are the small hinged links that connect the rear leaf springs to your truck’s frame. Coachbuilder shackles replace the factory units with a longer, precision-machined version that lowers the spring’s rear mounting point — which raises the back of the truck. On the Tundra they use replaceable polyurethane bushings and sleeves (there’s a dedicated rebuild kit), so they can be serviced rather than thrown away when the bushings eventually wear.
People choose them over other lift methods for three reasons: they’re inexpensive, they install in a driveway with hand tools, and they keep the ride closer to stock than a lift block does.
How coachbuilder shackles work
By extending shackle length, the kit changes the angle and effective length of the rear leaf spring, lifting the rear of the vehicle and improving your departure angle for off-road driving. Because the spring itself still does the work, you keep more of the factory ride quality — the shackle just repositions where the spring anchors. That’s the core difference between a shackle lift and a block, which simply stacks height between the axle and spring.
How much lift do you actually get?
This is the number to get right before you buy. The kit names describe shackle length, but the real rear lift is roughly: +1" → ~0.6", +2" → ~1.25", +3" → ~1.75", +4" → ~2.25". Most Tundra owners running a mild front leveling kit pick the +2" to keep the truck sitting level; those chasing more clearance or a slight rake for towing step up to the +3" or +4".
Coachbuilder shackles vs. lift blocks
Both add rear height, but they get there differently. Shackles reposition the leaf spring and preserve much of the factory ride, while blocks raise the axle-to-spring stack and can add axle wrap and a stiffer, bouncier feel — especially over washboard. For a modest rear lift on a leaf-sprung Tundra, shackles are widely considered the smoother, more refined option. Blocks make more sense only at larger lift heights where a full kit is involved.
What bigger lifts may also need
A small shackle lift is usually a standalone bolt-on. Once you climb toward the top of the range — or stack a shackle lift on top of a front lift — a couple of supporting parts keep the driveline and handling right:
- Driveline vibration: taller lifts can change the rear driveshaft angle. A carrier bearing drop kit re-centers that angle to kill vibration.
- Sway-bar geometry: on tall lifts, extended rear sway-bar end links keep the factory TRD bar working correctly.
- Steering correction: big front lifts pair with a Coachbuilder OE-replacement steering kit to restore proper geometry.
- Long-term service: the shackle rebuild kit (poly bushings, sleeves, hardware) refreshes any Coachbuilder shackle when the bushings wear.
Browse the full range in our Off-Road Suspension collection.
Installation guide
Installing coachbuilder shackles is a manageable DIY job with basic tools. Work on a flat, stable surface and support the truck properly before you start.
Tools you’ll need
- Socket wrench set and a torque wrench
- Jack and jack stands
- Penetrating oil (for the factory shackle bolts)
Step by step
- Loosen the rear lug nuts, then lift the rear of the truck and support it on jack stands. Remove the wheels.
- Support the leaf spring with a jack to relieve tension on the shackle.
- Unbolt and remove the factory shackle from the frame and leaf spring.
- Inspect the new Coachbuilder shackle, then bolt it in place and torque the hardware to spec.
- Reinstall the wheels, lower the truck, and re-check all fasteners.
- Get an alignment check afterward and re-torque after your first drive.
The two mistakes to avoid: skipping the torque spec on the shackle bolts, and skipping the post-install alignment. Both are quick to get right and prevent uneven tire wear or loose hardware down the road.
Pricing: what coachbuilder shackles cost
Coachbuilder shackle kits for the Tundra run from $305 to $375 per kit, scaling with lift height — $305 for the +1", $315 for the +2", $340 for the +3", and $375 for the +4". Budget a little extra if you’re adding supporting parts like a carrier bearing drop or the rebuild kit for a future service. Compared with a full lift kit, a shackle lift is one of the most cost-effective ways to gain rear height.
Frequently asked questions
What vehicles do these coachbuilder shackles fit?
These Coachbuilder shackle kits are built specifically for the Toyota Tundra, 2007–2021, including TRD Pro. Always confirm your year on the product page before ordering.
How much lift will I actually get?
Roughly half the shackle’s name in real rear lift: about 0.6" for the +1", 1.25" for the +2", 1.75" for the +3", and 2.25" for the +4".
Do coachbuilder shackles ride better than lift blocks?
Generally yes. Because they reposition the leaf spring instead of stacking height under it, most owners report a smoother ride and less bed bounce than with blocks.
Can I install them myself?
Yes — it’s a common driveway job with hand tools. Torque the hardware to spec and get an alignment check afterward.
Will I need anything else?
A basic shackle lift is usually standalone. Taller setups may want a carrier bearing drop, extended sway-bar end links, or (with a matching front lift) a steering correction kit.
Are coachbuilder shackles right for you?
If you drive a 2007–2021 Tundra and want an affordable, smoother-riding rear lift you can install yourself, coachbuilder shackles are one of the best-value upgrades available. Match the kit to the lift you actually want, verify fitment on the product page, and you’re set.
