Newb with suspension q's
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New User
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From: Spokane Washington
Newb with suspension q's
I have an '82 F150 2wd supercab that I'm restoring, and in the process I want to do a suspension drop kit. The biggest problem I'm finding is that the only parts I'm finding are for an '83-'96, but for lifting a 2wd almost every kit goes from '80-'96. What, if any, are the differences from the '80-'82 suspension systems and an '83-on truck? I sent DJM suspension an email and they said "No idea, sorry". I've got spring compressors on it now but I know that cannot be permanent. Any ideas?
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From: Lost
80-82 had king pins, 83-96 used upper/lower ball joints.
The I-beams are different, but will swap without issue, as long as you have the correct spindles to match. If the spindles are from newer than 85 or so, you'll need calipers to match, since they changed that part of the system. As far as I'm aware, the rotors never changed from 73-96.
The I-beams are different, but will swap without issue, as long as you have the correct spindles to match. If the spindles are from newer than 85 or so, you'll need calipers to match, since they changed that part of the system. As far as I'm aware, the rotors never changed from 73-96.
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New User
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From: Spokane Washington
Finaly, an answer. I've been tryin like crazy to get an response somewhere. So I need I-beams, spindles and the drop kit? And staying between 83-85 will keep my brakes? That would be good as Im doin a full brake job in a couple weeks, no sense in gettin all new parts again. Thank you
Post Fiend
Joined: Dec 2007
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From: Lost
Actually, if you plan to buy the drop kit, you may not need the stock I-beams. Most drop kits include drop I-beams. No sense buying to sets......
Also, just a heads up, but there was an F100 offered in 83. Some of these used a 5x4.5 bolt pattern, while other used the 5x5.5.
The F100 spindles will work fine if they have the 5x5.5 rotors. I believe the 5x4.5 rotors are smaller diameter, and I don't know if you could make them work.
Also, just a heads up, but there was an F100 offered in 83. Some of these used a 5x4.5 bolt pattern, while other used the 5x5.5.
The F100 spindles will work fine if they have the 5x5.5 rotors. I believe the 5x4.5 rotors are smaller diameter, and I don't know if you could make them work.
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Joined: Mar 2010
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From: Spokane Washington
I had no intentions of going near a F100 for parts, dont really see em up here anyways. Lots of F150s though. The kit has parts called "dream beams", must be i-beam replacements? Here's the page: DJM Suspension - Products - 1983-1986 Ford F150
Know of any other kits by chance? Also, are my stock springs gunna work with all this?
Know of any other kits by chance? Also, are my stock springs gunna work with all this?
Post Fiend
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 8,521
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From: Lost
Yep, those dream beams are indeed replacement I-beams. The F100 with 5.5 bolt pattern uses the exact same spindles/rotors/calipers/pads as the F150, so don't over look a F100 altogether.
Stock springs are something that you should ask the suspension supplier. I would assume the drop beams are designed for stock springs. You might want to get new replacements, if the old springs are getting weak or starting to sag.
Stock springs are something that you should ask the suspension supplier. I would assume the drop beams are designed for stock springs. You might want to get new replacements, if the old springs are getting weak or starting to sag.
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From: Spokane Washington
I know LMC has every spring you can imagine, but one year can be "heavy duty" and be standard on the next. I have no problem with new springs, just not sure which ones to stick with. I still want to tow/haul small loads (1500lbs of less) so would I stick with a standard spring for 82 or go with something heavy duty? The truck was ordered for towing from the factory, not sure if that changed the front suspension parts any.
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Post Fiend
Joined: Dec 2007
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From: Lost
LMC is pricey. You can get new springs thru most any parts store for much less, and don't have to pay LMC's pricey shipping/handling.
Supercabs used a bit heavier spring in the front, due to the extra weight and wheelbase.
The "heavy duty" springs are the same length as the lighter ones, just a bit stiffer. The stiffer springs will make the front sit a bit higher, while the softer ones will allow it to sit lower.
The good news is, by going to the 83-96 style I-beams, they have adjustable camber, while the 80-82 I-beams require bending to adjust camber.....
Supercabs used a bit heavier spring in the front, due to the extra weight and wheelbase.
The "heavy duty" springs are the same length as the lighter ones, just a bit stiffer. The stiffer springs will make the front sit a bit higher, while the softer ones will allow it to sit lower.
The good news is, by going to the 83-96 style I-beams, they have adjustable camber, while the 80-82 I-beams require bending to adjust camber.....
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