lower the front end

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Aug 28, 2002 | 05:30 AM

Mike 61Ford

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From: prince edward island

lower the front end

I have a 1961 ford unibody i would like to lower the front end. It has a straight axel on it.Would like to lower 2 to 3 inches if possible.please help out.

Aug 28, 2002 | 08:55 AM

cobraguy

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From: San Diego CA

lower the front end

Mike I have a 61 uni also I wanted to lower but not slam it. I used a volare front clip and fabricated mounts for it instead of notching the frame. It bolts in just like it did in the volare. I got about 4" of drop wich looks good, plus power steering, softer independent suspension, and power disc brakes. If clipping is too much you can get a drop axle and springs that will get it anywhere you want from dragging the ground to the mile high club. Good luck, Rich.

Aug 29, 2002 | 03:38 AM

Zen_1963_Unibody

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From: USA

lower the front end

In reply to cobraguy

Was that hard to do, putting the Volare front clip in? I've been thinking about an IFS for my '63, but I don't want a Mustang II. JUst checking outt he field, first I've heard of a Volare in a Unibody. The front ends on the beam axle F100 were definitely too high.

-Zen-

Aug 29, 2002 | 10:22 AM

cobraguy

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From: San Diego CA

lower the front end

Zen, it wasn't as hard as I thought it would be at first. I did have some challenges though and had to grind off the front mounts and move them to make it all work right. If I had made the same mistake while notching the frame, wich is the normal way to install one, I'd have probably had to star over. You know measure twice cut once not measure, weld, check fit, cuss alot, get out the grinder.......
It took about 75 to 100 hours stretched out over 8 months to go from running stock to to what it is now. If I were to do it again I would look into the Aerostar or Dakota setup. The volare is nice when it's empty but put a laod in it and it will wallow like driving a waterbed. Better shocks are not available for old volares. If you have specific questions go ahead and ask. Truckfarmer is also a good person to ask as he's done a few more clips than I, and he helped me out with mine. Good luck, Rich.

Aug 29, 2002 | 11:29 AM

44dwarf

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Joined: Oct 2001

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From: Winchendon MA

lower the front end

Hey Cobra.
Have you looked at Pro Shock for stiffer shocks? You'll have to measure full compressed and full extended and then order the rate of dampining you need. Most OEM shocks are around a "2" rateing so I'd try a 3 or 4 rate.

44Dwarf

Aug 29, 2002 | 10:35 PM

cobraguy

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From: San Diego CA

lower the front end

Hey 44dwarf I'm not racing it or anything and I don't load it up too often. I know specialty shocks can get pricey. I'd rather spend the money on other parts that are higher on the priority list.