Coil Spring setup

[xterraminator]

On a coil spring and shock setup I have seen some guys attach the top of the spring to the bucket, and then there are those who let the spring fall down to a point where it almost comes out of the bucket. I guess allowing the spring to come down gives you more flex. What is best way to do this?

 

[TheFauxFox]

To keep your coil/suspension from getting damaged, I see most people keep it attached to the bucket. Others get away with just running a tube to contain the coil:

I'd run the foremost mentioned to prevent possible damage. Conversely, you could run limit straps.

 

[xterraminator]

Thanks for the reply. Yes I agree with you limit straps are a good idea. I was thinking of having the limit straps at a certain length such that the coil could not fall off the inner tube. Basically the same as the picture but with straps.

Here is another question, for a SAS in a 1st gen xterra what is the distance between the back of an axle to the front of the oil pan that dips down. I have it about 2" This would be if the axle were directly in front of oil pan.