This is my first post. I've been lurking around here for a few years and have found some very useful info, thanks. I've found a new project and was wondering the best way to proceed.I've got a 56 f-100 and would like to upgrade the front steering and suspension. What do most of you do without grafting to the frame. I would like to keep it as stock looking as possible.

 

Order yourself a catalog from www.midfifty.com you can keep all your front axle parts or replace what's needed,there is lowering springs, mono leaf, reverse eye springs. Talk to the girls there and they will help you out. I'd upgrade to disc brakes up front also. At any rate there is a wealth of information in thier catalog. Welcome to the site.

 

If I had to do it over again, I would just rebuild the stock suspension will all new parts but upgrade to discs, mono springs, sway bars, and dropped axles. Its costs just as much in the end but the cool factor scores many points. I did the volare and am happy with it (very cost effictive) but lose many cool points. Straight axles can drive nearly as good as IFS, just stay out of the potholes.

 

I just completely rebuilt my front suspension and steering and rear suspension. It's all stock withthe exception of custome springs (which the spring shop can make as easily as regular springs). Now my truck rides and drives as good as my 2002 Ranger.

I would rebuild my stock stuff.

Welcome to FTE by the way.

 

you can re-arch your own main spring to get reverse eyes, add a 4" drop from Sid Drapal, and be in the weeds with all the nostalgia cool and at a nostalgic price. just be sure to get the steering dropped to match.
JML

 

I rebuilt Frank's steering and suspension ten years ago. It still drives great and I love it. In the future, I think I will go back to the original style wheels/hubcaps. The '52, Joe, just received new spring bushings, shocks, drag link kit, and pitman arm. It made a world of difference and it is so easy to steer with the original wheels. I used LT215/85/16 tires. Good luck.

 

Thanks to all the replys. I would have got back sooner, but I have been trying to load up a picture of my truck, with no luck. Me and computers don't agree. I have been to midfifty's, great site. Just found out my tie rod studs are wobbly in the spindle steering arms. Not sure if theres a fix for that. Haven't seen replacement spindles any where yet.

 

The tie rods have a tapered fit. They can be tight in the arm, but still be worn out. You could loosen the nut and it should not be loose in the steering arm.

 

WulleBulle, thats just it, when I checked for play the jam nut would rock back and forth. I'm just guessing at this point but I think the hole may be hogged out. Is there any way to resize and change the tie rod ends to a different type? Thanks

 

You might be able to clean it up with a tapered reamer. It can stand a little gouging. It doesn't have to be totally smooth, as long there are no high spots. If you can't, the steering arm may need to be replaced. They bolt into the spindle on each side. On the other hand, someone may have already worked this out with a different tie rod. Call Midfifty. They are a lot of help, or PM me and I will.