Stock shocks for lifting?

[JesseyWray]

Just got a new (to me) '89 4wd van to replace my '89 2wd van that was totaled out earlier this year. Excited to get working on this thing! Wanted a 4wd for awhile now. Anyways, just need a bit of clarification of lifting this sucker.

1. Can I use the stock front shocks when lifting or not?
Seeing most people using non OEM shocks for the front but a few people mention that the travel distance doesn't change when raising the torsion bars and therefore being able to use the stock shocks.

2. Can I use stock springs with spacers for the rear?
I know people get the Aerostar springs for the rear and cut them, but someone also mentioned using the stock springs with the daystar spacers.

3. If I need to use the Aerostar springs (though I'm having trouble finding them online) do I need the spacers?
Also anyone know of a different spring that'll work if I can't source the Aerostars?

Thanks all. Just trying to get info straight before I go ordering parts and such.

[Jan-Willem]

On rockauto they have springs for the aerostar:
https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/ford,1986,aerostar,2.8l+171cid+v6,1104994,suspensi on,coil+spring,7512
I would not see, why you would need both spacer's and springs.
I have no personal experience, as I live overseas, and aerostar springs are not available in europe, and very expensive to ship. I got springs from pedders instead.

Your stock shocks could limit the wheel travel obviously, but that would entirely depend, on how much you intend to lift the vehicle. I have no issues, with my 1 inch lift, and stock-size-shocks, I am equally sure that a 3 inch lift would be limited by the stock size shocks...

[JesseyWray]

Thanks for the reply. Rockauto does indeed have them, just not seeing the part number people mention on here (not sure that it really makes a difference, but...)

Seems like most of the lifting posts use the springs and the spacers...maybe I'm confused though. I wouldn't see why you'd need to cut the springs and then use spacers but again, maybe I'm just confused or missing something, haha.

I'll have to research the front shocks more. Seems like most people get a 2" lift with these mods and that seems like the bigger tires are included in that height.