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73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => Brakes, Frame, Steering & Suspension => The Lows (Lowering/Drops) => Topic started by: tomkatt2935 on November 30, 2017, 12:49:52 AM

Title: Leaf
Post by: tomkatt2935 on November 30, 2017, 12:49:52 AM
Hello, first time posting here. My apologies if I'm asking something that's been asked before but I'm not finding any concrete answers when I search. I've got a 78 1/2 ton GMC SWB I've recently started fixing up a bit. Here's my problem. I ordered and installed a DJM 3/5 lowering kit, which consist of the DJM tubular lower control arms in front and a flip kit in the rear. After installing the front and rear components my front sits slightly under 2 inches taller in the front. I'd be content with the truck just sitting level. With the control arms I've used I assume that cutting a little of my coils would be not a good option because there potentially could be issues with bottoming out with the shorter spring. Am I correct on that or could I possibly cut a little off the coils and not have any issues? If that isn't a viable option could I add a leaf to the rear spring pack to get the rear up a little bit to level the truck out? Thanks in advance.
Title: Re: Leaf
Post by: VileZambonie on November 30, 2017, 05:56:54 AM
I would suggest lowering spindles.
Title: Re: Leaf
Post by: MrFiveOh on November 30, 2017, 10:48:42 AM
Two options

Buy spindles and bring the front down at least 2 inches or wait approximately 3-6 months and let the new springs settle like they are supposed to do and then check spindle to bottom of fender. factory height is 19.5 inches from center of spindle to bottom of wheel opening.
Title: Re: Leaf
Post by: tomkatt2935 on November 30, 2017, 12:28:45 PM
Will the springs settle? I didn't change the actual springs, just the control arms, springs are original as far as I know. I could get lowering spindles but would like to find a solution that works with what I've already got. From the research I've done I can't use lowering control arms with drop spindles.
Title: Re: Leaf
Post by: MrFiveOh on November 30, 2017, 03:14:06 PM
Will the springs settle? I didn't change the actual springs, just the control arms, springs are original as far as I know. I could get lowering spindles but would like to find a solution that works with what I've already got. From the research I've done I can't use lowering control arms with drop spindles.

No they wont since they are old. My misunderstanding
Title: Re: Leaf
Post by: VileZambonie on November 30, 2017, 04:35:20 PM
Then the simplest solution is to raise the rear
Title: Re: Leaf
Post by: tomkatt2935 on November 30, 2017, 06:37:36 PM
Raise the rear by adding a leaf spring?
Title: Re: Leaf
Post by: VileZambonie on November 30, 2017, 08:00:42 PM
I thought you flipped the axle?
Title: Re: Leaf
Post by: MrFiveOh on November 30, 2017, 10:40:07 PM
I thought you flipped the axle?

he did, but since he went tubular arm instead of drop spindle and springs he cant use spindles in conjunction with tubular arms. Those are better reserved for laying frame (IMO). And since spindles dont jack with alignment now he has to change spring setup and get an alignment.
Title: Re: Leaf
Post by: VileZambonie on December 01, 2017, 06:07:21 AM
I thought you flipped the axle?

he did, but since he went tubular arm instead of drop spindle and springs he cant use spindles in conjunction with tubular arms. Those are better reserved for laying frame (IMO). And since spindles dont jack with alignment now he has to change spring setup and get an alignment.
So if the axle is flipped adding a leaf will not help. Adjustable shackles are a cheap alternative

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