Lowering front end

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Mar 21, 2016 | 08:07 PM

gary's1950F1

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From: Brule Wisconsin

Lowering front end

I want to lower the front of my 1950 F1. Would it be better to do it with springs or a drop axle? I have a big block Fe engine and the cross member engine mount is 6" above and a little in front of the axle. I'd like to do it with the springs because of cost.

Mar 21, 2016 | 08:14 PM

Oz52F1

More Turbo

Joined: Nov 2007

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From: Melbourne Australia

with a small block, just lowering via springs would be a BIG compromise......adding in the Big Block??????

just get the drop axle.....you'll only need to do it once in 50 years.

do it now....be happy!!

Mar 23, 2016 | 05:00 PM

artscott61

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Feb 2015

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From: southwest missouri

I did springs and while I am on this could someone tell me if the 400 is considered a big block. I bought the springs for a small block but I have the 400 in now but am going to put the 302 in down the road.

Mar 23, 2016 | 05:04 PM

4tl8ford

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Joined: Jun 2001

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From: Erie, pa

Gary - How much do you want to drop the front end?
You can get several inches by changing the wheels and tires

Mar 23, 2016 | 05:44 PM

gary's1950F1

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From: Brule Wisconsin

I put a ford 8.8 read end under it and that lowered the back about 5". Right now the front is a lot higher than the back. I thought if I can lower the front about 3" I can get the stance I want from there with tires and rims

Mar 23, 2016 | 05:50 PM

gary's1950F1

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From: Brule Wisconsin

Art from what I can find the 400 isn't a big block but its not the small block either its a 335 series with the 351's

Mar 24, 2016 | 04:28 AM

52 Ford F1

Tuned

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From: Metro Detroit, MI

Quote:

Originally Posted by gary's1950F1

Keep in mind those front end drops are measured from original ride height with factory setup.... The extra motor weight and 60 years of sag on the leafs might mean you do the springs and end up at the same level.
Until they sag also I suppose.