front suspension setup?
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New User
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
From: hagerstown
front suspension setup?
hey everyone im new here first off great site. ive been building my project truck for about two years now its a 48-52 depending on which part 
and recently installed the total cost involved rear leaf kit that lowers the truck 4 inch , just wondering what everyone thinks it s a good way to go with the front to make it sit pretty level?
and recently installed the total cost involved rear leaf kit that lowers the truck 4 inch , just wondering what everyone thinks it s a good way to go with the front to make it sit pretty level?
Cargo Master
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 3,337
Likes: 165
From: Harpswell Maine
A number of us have installed Jaguar xj IFS from late 70's to 87. See my gallery and search on jag xj IFS for info. Cheaper and easier to install imho than the M2.
The jag setup fits really well under the 48-52 frame since the frame is pinched in from 34" to 32" wide in the front. It takes a little more work to mount it in the 53 and up years since the frame is 34" wide for the full length of the frame.
The jag setup fits really well under the 48-52 frame since the frame is pinched in from 34" to 32" wide in the front. It takes a little more work to mount it in the 53 and up years since the frame is 34" wide for the full length of the frame.
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New User
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 23
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From: hagerstown
first off thanks for the fast replies, i was wondering about the drop axle and spring setup, kind of on a tight budget also, i already have a rebuilt 289 mounted in the truck with a cpp crossmember
Senior User
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 117
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From: Marana, AZ
I have a front suspension from IFS Kit Configuration « HelixSuspension.com due in this next week. Just another option to compare.
Posting Guru
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 1,849
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From: S.C.
I have the TCI rear spring kit and a stretched front axle; not the new fangle ones I had issues with one and went with the original stretched 3" it sits pretty good to me. However, the ride quality improved vastly when I put bilstein shocks on; also redo the suspension components (don't forget the king pins) and you should be OK.
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Junior User
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 98
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From: Waterford, Michigan
Where are you located?
I am currently trying to cut a deal for an IFS for my 52. If I can get the deal done I have a new drop axle with full disc brake set up that was installed by the PO and has 0 miles on it.
If you are close to MI I am willing to cut you a deal to put some money back into the build fund. I don't know the exact manufacturer of this unit or the drop but I think the PO told me 3 inches.
Regardless of which way you decide to go with your build good luck and enjoy
Rich
I am currently trying to cut a deal for an IFS for my 52. If I can get the deal done I have a new drop axle with full disc brake set up that was installed by the PO and has 0 miles on it.
If you are close to MI I am willing to cut you a deal to put some money back into the build fund. I don't know the exact manufacturer of this unit or the drop but I think the PO told me 3 inches.
Regardless of which way you decide to go with your build good luck and enjoy
Rich
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Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 1,511
Likes: 1
From: peyton, colorado
I've got the same rear kit on my F1, 4" drop. I used a Jag IFS like 49 Willard's. Several of us have used that setup, it works great on F1's. Check Willards gallery, along with mine and 49steels'. I can't remember all the other users with the jag setup, but when you can search you can find all of them.
Senior User
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 369
Likes: 1
From: Indiana
Special 55...I may be interested in that axle if it stays laying around...I am located in Indiana.
Cashy, the springs don't make a difference. You can use the same leaf springs that are on it now and get 3" lower, or you can get some lowering springs and take it even lower. One thing to keep in mind is you will need tie rod drops with pretty much any dropped axle, which arent that expensive.
Cashy, the springs don't make a difference. You can use the same leaf springs that are on it now and get 3" lower, or you can get some lowering springs and take it even lower. One thing to keep in mind is you will need tie rod drops with pretty much any dropped axle, which arent that expensive.
Posting Guru
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 1,849
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From: S.C.
Cashy,
as mentioned before I used my original leaf spring, along with the drop tie-rod extensions, I used bilistein shocks because they are top of the line shocks and provides great handling and ride comfort however, there are several other brands that will fit the truck. With the drop axle the length of the shock doesn't change so the stock type ones will still fit.
as mentioned before I used my original leaf spring, along with the drop tie-rod extensions, I used bilistein shocks because they are top of the line shocks and provides great handling and ride comfort however, there are several other brands that will fit the truck. With the drop axle the length of the shock doesn't change so the stock type ones will still fit.
Hotshot
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 15,882
Likes: 88
From: Durham NC
You can take out every other leaf in the OEM spring pack to lower the front and soften the ride at no cost. If you lower the front, you'll likely need caster adjustment wedges to align the front end.
Junior User
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 98
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From: Waterford, Michigan
[quote=Fordman49F1;10136707]Special 55...I may be interested in that axle if it stays laying around...I am located in Indiana.quote]
Fordman,
Negotiations broke down yesterday so it looks like I may stick with the drop axle.
If something changes I will give you dibs.
Rich
Fordman,
Negotiations broke down yesterday so it looks like I may stick with the drop axle.
If something changes I will give you dibs.
Rich
Senior User
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 369
Likes: 1
From: Indiana
[quote=special 55;10138004]Greatly appreciated. What is it you are looking for? I may be able to help find it...unless of course if it is new...which I have no control over!