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I have a 66 F250 that I wish to lower (1-2 inches) without replacing the original I-beams. Is it possible to lower the truck/chassis 1-2 inches with different springs/shocks? I'm not interested in replacing I-beams with DJM 3 inch drop beams or switching to IFS. Trying to get the truck a tad lower using the original i-beams. Thanks for any/all responses.
The only way to lower your truck without using lowering beams would be to run shorter coil springs. However, the camber of the front tires is set by the height of the springs. If you start shortening the coils, you begin to induce negative camber into the wheels/tires (the front tires will lean inward at the top).
The only correct way to lower the truck is to install lowering beams.
Thanks for the feedback. One follow-up question...suppose I went with the lowering i-beams (like DJM 3 inch drops), is it possible to add 1-2 inches back to the ride height...and do it safely and in a mechanically sound way to avoid the camber issues? I know this may seem like odd questions, but I'm trying to get as much information regarding my options so I can make the best decision for our needs. Thanks again.
You MAY be able to add or subtract some minor amout of spring height to adjust the overall vehicle height. Too much reduction though will result in negative camber, which is going to chew up the inner edges of the front tires. Too much addition to the height is going to result in positive camber that's going to chew up the outer edges of the tires.
It would probably be best just to contact DJM tech support and ask them what your options are, and what you're wanting to do, to see what they say can or can't be done.
You'll also run out of suspension travel. I've seen one lowered like you're contemplating. The camber didn't appear too bad (although it certainly was adversely affected) but the axles sat about an inch from the rubber stops. Truck looked cool though!
Eric
So I spoke to DJM and they no longer make the lowering beams for f250s (only make the ones for F100). I'm starting to get the impression it's not possible to lower the truck (without switching to IFS)...at least not safely/correctly.
Some of these aftermarket suppliers are having to cover their a**es. Blackbird LLC - the guys in Bozeman, MT that made the front disk brake caliper brackets - got sued by someone involved in an accident and that was the end of their business.
hi csm 274, I sent you a pm, I lowered my 65 2in. with out buying new axles. It takes a little work but works great. check your pm for my phone number and give me a call, I will give you the details over the phone. Don
BTW: I understand that Sid Drapal, from Nostalgia Sid's/droppedaxles.com is slowly working on fixtures to enable him to drop the factory forged twin I beams. No ETA, as this is stricly a "spare time" project, and he stays plenty busy with work in the shop, plus attending events as a vendor....
I sure hope it's not YEARS away, as I am interested, but when I get to the point where I'm ready, if the beams are not, I may be forced to go another route.
To see if he will be dropping twins anytime soon. I have heard that rumor in the past, hopefully it's not a rumor now. I'll let everyone know what he says.
I did lower 2" in the front cutting the springs and it did cause noticeable negative camber, but I only put 100 miles on my truck a month.
