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Projects How far can I lower a Shoebox?

Discussion in 'The Hokey Ass Message Board' started by Slow 50, Nov 19, 2013.

  1. Slow 50
    Joined: Jun 3, 2013
    Posts: 16

    Slow 50
    Member
    from Dallas, TX

    I'm trying to find out how far I can statically lower, without major fabrication, my 1950 2dr custom, 351w, 5speed by using de-arched leaf springs (rear) and coil springs (front). Jamco offers up to 4" for the rear and 3" for the front. I would like to go the full 4" in the rear and 3" in the front. Any guidance/pictures will be greatly appreciated!
     
  2. scoTT la rock
    Joined: Aug 28, 2013
    Posts: 68

    scoTT la rock
    Member
    from NJ

  3. the-rodster
    Joined: Jul 2, 2003
    Posts: 6,945

    the-rodster
    Member

    You can go 3 inches in the front no problem

    Once you go 4 or more, you will have to notch the inner fenders for clearance.

    On the rear, you can go 3-4 inches without much change.

    Going more in the rear, and you will have to shorten the bump stops, raise the driveshaft tunnel, and possibly C the frame, etc.

    Rich
     
  4. Do a search for threads discussing the aerostar front spring swap. Seems that the jamco drop makes for some pretty uncomfortable driving.
     

  5. hooliganshotrods
    Joined: Dec 2, 2010
    Posts: 629

    hooliganshotrods
    Member

    I did my Customline with Aerostar springs, homemade blocks for the rear and new U-bolts. I got about 3" in the front and did 3" blocks in the back. All in all it cost less than 130 dollars and a few hours of work.

    Aeorstar springs will get you about 2-2.5" but they will settle a little more.

    4" in the back may cause you to hit on big bumps if you have passengers riding back there, oh, and have fun changing the tires, they are a bitch even with 3" blocks, though this is on my customline and haven't done a shoebox though I would imagine it's the same animal.
     
  6. squeaky32
    Joined: May 30, 2013
    Posts: 135

    squeaky32
    Member

    like said above, be careful of 4" in the rear with the springs de-arched because your bound it slam into those bump stops a time or two, doesnt feel that great on the rear of my 54 lincoln, and i only have 3" blocks, a notch will make like way easier.
     
  7. Slow 50
    Joined: Jun 3, 2013
    Posts: 16

    Slow 50
    Member
    from Dallas, TX

    100% thank you all so much for the guidance! I'll go 3" up front and 4" in the rear for sure. My frame already has a mild (and ugly) notch so that should work out. I need to have some axle work done so I wanted to do all of the rear at once. On a side note, I have the Jamco front disc conv. and frame mount power booster installed. I've had nothing but a great experience with Jamco and their parts. Timing is always everything and I may have just caught them on good days. I'll get some pictures up when everything gets moving!
     

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