spindles or springs

[gwcrim]

I know this topic has been covered ad nauseum but I like a good conversation.... as it may be.

I want to lower my '80 C10 about 2-3 in the front and 3-4 in the rear.  The rear has brand new leaf springs and I'll use shackles and hangers there.  The front springs are original with 60k on them.  Wheels are 15" slotted aluminum with 4.5" back space.  The truck is not to be used as a daily driver but I don't want to sacrifice ride or handling.  Especially handling.  I'd rather do this right the first time than try and save a buck and have to do it again.

My options as I see them are:

1- cut the original springs
2- new lowering springs
3- lowering spindles

Pros and cons?

[zieg85]

Well my $.02  I have not personally lowered a vehicle however 1) cut stock springs will ride very rough.  2) lowering springs alone may make getting the alignment right 3) best way to go if your current rims will clear, alignment should be best doing #3 since your only wanting 2-3 inches.

[gwcrim]

Truck needs an alignment so that's not a factor.  Wheel clearance is.

Is that a vote for springs then?

[VileZambonie]

The right way to do it is with lowering spindles. Cutting a coil to index will be okay too but once you go beyond that you are not going to be happy with the ride. You made need a 1/4" wheel spacer as well with those wheels.

[SkinnyG]

On my previous truck (not a square), I ran low via springs only, and then later switched to spindles.

The difference was noticeable - the truck was "better" with spindles.  It felt like something was unusual with spring only, but you couldn't quite put your finger on it.  The spindles felt a lot better.

However, the spindles were not a $250 smile on my face.  They were better, but not $250 better.

Do note:

Cutting springs or using drop springs will alter where the wheel is in the camber curve, and change the roll center dramatically.  You will likely get more scrub (lateral movement of the tire in bump) which will wear out the front tires quicker.  You may also move the steering arms such that bump steer is made worse.  In this case, spindles would be better.  If you cut springs or use drop springs, you may need shorter shocks and/or shorter bumpstops in order to ride fine.  Drop springs should be stiffer to account for the reduced travel, but in my experience they are not usually stiff enough.

Also:

Spindles often move the tie rod end further inboard to clear the now higher wheel, which will reduce Ackerman, increasing turning radius and extra tire scrub on turns.

Reality:

You will likely want to go lower in the future (that's how this starts - "just a little bit more..."), and you will eventually need spindles to do that.

[82silverado]

I lowered mine 2 inches all the way around. In the front I heated the springs. I have no alignment or ride issues at all and stock shocks still work just fine. Truck rides like a car.

[gwcrim]

So Skinny, seems as though you're saying that spindles are the better way to go.... except when they arent'?   

[SkinnyG]

Hahahaha.   Magic always comes with a price, dearie.

They have their advantages, they have their disadvantages.  The best you can do is be informed, and make the choice that makes sense to you.

My '77 has 3" spindles AND cut springs.

I will ~never~ use dropped control arms.

(If I were to do it again, I would probably Z the frame and pancake the crossmember instead.....)

[Captkaos]

I have used all methods.  After 2 coils your ride is going to be bad.
Of the otiond you list, spindles and springs

Chris Lucas
73-87chevytrucks.com
squarebody.biz

[gwcrim]

Anyone have any experience with Chassis Tech?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/282067500632?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

[Captkaos]

I have used them on a couple trucks but sold the trucks so no long term experience.  I typically stick with Belltech, western, etc.

[gwcrim]

I wound up getting spindles, shackles, and hangers from McGaugheys. 

[Captkaos]

What rim size?  15's and McGaughys don't like each other much.

[82silverado]

Stuff like that is exactly why I went with heating the springs on the front when I decided to lower only a couple inches in the front. Cost was zero.

[Captkaos]

Heating springs are a bad idea, it fatigues the spring and it will eventually collapse.  If you are doing it on the cheap and want about 2" drop just lop off 1 coil set it back in and drive it around the block and measure than go in small increments replace drive and measure.