I'm building a 49 f1. I want to lower it but i have stock suspension. Flamin' suggested finding a way to put axle on top of the leafs but doesn't know how low it will lower my truck. Any info or pics will be appreciated. Thanks Clayton
doing that would get you atleast 4 inches maybe/ probably more you could do what my friend did with his 69 d100 he pulled 2 of the smaller leafs out of each side dropped his 21/2 -3 inches didnt effect the ride or anything else
You can put the axle on top of the springs to gain some drop, but you will need to consider notching the frame to maintain some suspension travel. You will also need to change the shock mounts so that the shock doesn't bottom or top out on your actual suspension travel once you get the lowering done.
I've already taken some leafs out but id like it be lower. Willy301 thanks for the help. will that change the ride quality or stay the same?
flipping the axle shouldnt have much effect on ride quality. do a search you should find many examples and pictures.
You could flip the main leaf. That should drop you about 2"-2 1/2". Look for a dropped axle. That should get you another 3" or so.
On my chevy,I did the dropped axle. Love the results and ride, flipped the rear added a notch also. Posted from the TJJ App for iPhone & iPad
A dropped axle is going to be easiest and cheapest in the long run. I pulled some leaves and de-arched my front springs to drop mine enough for me. If you put the front axle on top of the springs you will need a frame notch, you may also have tie rod clearance issues and bumpsteer if you don't relocate the steering box. I would take a serious look at the Jag IFS.....
Removing the springs will affect the ride, moving the axle above the springs would not. Changing the the shocks just makes them continue to work correctly. This is more about the rear. I have not played much with the front, may need to find a dropped axle setup for that. Flipping a front axle would mess up your kingpin set up and steering geometry.
Jag IFS changed for the 87 model year...look for cars with dual headlights if you find an 87. Large single lamp is new stuff. Here is your go-to thread for install http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=556832 Play with the search button, there are more. .