Quote:

Has anyone ever tried it?
I hear not to, but never got a reason why not.




Anyone tried it - YES
So, can you use Cal-Tracs with ss springs - YES
Is it optimal - NO

From my understanding on how the Cal-Trac bars work, part of the "leverage" the Cal-Tracs use to plant the rear tire is provided by the wrap-up of the front spring segment. The SS springs were designed with a stiff front segment to reduce spring wrap-up. Therefore they don't provide as much force on the Cal-Trac pivot bar, resulting in less downforce at the axle. Still more downforce than without the bars, but not as much as with a "softer" front spring segment.

Also with the Cal-Trac system, according to John Calvert, you want 5-inches of front suspension travel from resting static, to just before the wheel come off the ground. This movement is needed to get additional rotational weight to the back tires, again resulting in more downforce to the rear tires.

A lack of adequate front suspension travel can result in "unloading" of the tires a few feet off the line. Some of the unloading can be controlled with shock settings, but proper front suspension travel should cure most of an unloading issue.

Scott