Author Topic: Are longer shim bolts required with the use of drop springs?  (Read 4050 times)

Offline chevymotocross

  • Newbie
  • Posts: 95
I'm in the process of lowering the front of my 87 silverado along with new suspension parts (tie rods, balljoints, etc).

I noticed the stock setup already has lots of shims. With the addition of 2'' drop springs, I will need even more shims. I don't think the stock upper control arm studs will be long enough to compensate.

I read somewhere that the stock studs can be knocked out and replaced with longer 1/2x4 Grade 8 bolts.

Is this needed for a 2'' spring and 2.5'' spindle drop?

Moog also sells an offset UCA shaft but I would rather go the bolt route so I don't have to dissassemble the UCA.
1987 Chevy Silverado 2wd SWB: 305 TBI, 700r4, dual exhaust, tbi mods, k&n filter, belltech sway bar

Offline Captkaos

  • OWNER and Administrator
  • Administrator
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 18461
    • http://www.73-87chevytrucks.com
Re: Are longer shim bolts required with the use of drop springs?
« Reply #1 on: July 14, 2010, 01:11:49 pm »
more shims, yes.  longer studs no.

Offline chevymotocross

  • Newbie
  • Posts: 95
Re: Are longer shim bolts required with the use of drop springs?
« Reply #2 on: July 14, 2010, 01:20:23 pm »
I guess I'll give it a try. Just seems there isn't much thread left for extra shims. If alignment guy tells me so, I'll have to add longer studs at a later time.
1987 Chevy Silverado 2wd SWB: 305 TBI, 700r4, dual exhaust, tbi mods, k&n filter, belltech sway bar

Offline stavendirtbike

  • Newbie
  • Posts: 36
Re: Are longer shim bolts required with the use of drop springs?
« Reply #3 on: July 15, 2010, 04:01:04 pm »
I replaced them all today with longer grade 8 bolts. Atleast now I know 100% the alignment shop can have no excuse for not getting the camber correct. Plenty of room for shimming.

Offline txswb87

  • Newbie
  • Posts: 11
Re: Are longer shim bolts required with the use of drop springs?
« Reply #4 on: July 18, 2010, 09:02:41 pm »
Drop spindles dont change your front geometry,everything should work fine mine did.