Hello,
I'm pretty new here and I apologize if this topic has already been covered, but I couldn't find an exact answer to my specific questions through the quick search function (Believe me, I tried.) Basically, I'm building a street rod out of my old 1950 truck, and I'm at a stalemate with the suspension. So, here goes....
I'm installing a Mustang II IFS on the front and replacing the leaf springs in the back. I had wanted to use a TCI kit to lower the truck and give it new rear springs and shocks, but $550 would really wipe out my wallet. Gotta save for college and whatnot. I looked at Centerline's website and I really liked the way he fabricated the rear suspension. The only difference in my application is that I want the truck to sit about an inch lower in the rear. I was also looking at springs from a different donor vehicle (There is a strange paucity of Dodge Caravans around here). Will the rear springs from a newer Colorado or Ford Ranger fit without terrible modification? I'm not afraid of doing some fabrication work, but I don't want to spend too much time messing around with the rear suspension. Are the springs too long or too short? And how will they affect the ride height? What would you recommend for rear springs?
Second, I can't remember where I read this, but I recall an article denouncing the use of tubular control arms in an aftermarket Mustang II crossmember on these trucks. It said something about the tubular arms stressing the frame in places it was never meant to be stressed (which makes sense to me; the absence of a strut rod on a system originally designed to use one would alter the reflexive characteristics of the arms and thus load the frame in unusual ways). Anyway, are tubular control arms really an accident waiting to happen on these trucks?
Right now, I only have the Heidt's crossmember and shock towers welded onto the frame. The rear suspension is still original at this point. My dad knows an old buddy who might be willing to give us his old Mustang II components, which is why I asked about the tubular arms. I would like to get the rear suspension done at about the same time. I know you guys are a lot more knowledgeable than I am about this stuff, so I'm willing to hear (or read, rather) anything you have to offer. I want to be able to show this truck as well as drive it, so I know I have my work cut out for me. Thanks in advance for any advice.
--Chris
P.S.
I couldn't get my computer to upload a picture of either the frame of the truck I'm trying to mirror as far as stance goes. I'll try again later, but no promises...
