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The weekend lowering project #795124
09/07/10 12:24 AM
09/07/10 12:24 AM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
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I thought I would share my weekend project with everyone. I recently bought an 85 d150 swd 2wd to fix up for my daughter. Well we decided to lower it using some of the tricks learned here. Using drop shackles and flipping the spring hangers in the rear and van LCA in front. I tought I would post this and it might help some one else along the way.
For starters here what it looked like before I started lowering it, I also took measurments to be able to check progress along the way.

First step in the lowering were a set of chevy 2" drop shackles.

Note the differnce in the orignal shackle and new ones.

The old shackle at the bushing end is 1/2" and the new one is 5/8" so I came up with the plan that the old shackle has a metal sleeve that is 1/2 i.d. and 5/8 o.d. so I took a 1/8 drill bit and drilled all around the rubber to get the sleeve out of the old one. A torch would have been easier by just burning the rubber out but I don't have torches at the house. The new shackle the bushing is about 3/8" to wide so with the sawzall I cut 3/16 off each side of the rubber bushing and slid the metal sleeve from the old shackle and it worked like a charm. Hope you can see this in the picture.

So here is what the truck looked like after the shackles being installed.

This dropped the truck at the center of the rear wheel openings 1 3/4" and at the rear bumper 2 1/4"
Next step was the spring hanger flip at the front of the rear springs. After much chisling with the air chisel, here is the hanger removed and the center lines drawn for the new holes.

here are the hangers installed upside down. note the little bolt sticking throught the frame in front of the hanger this is the clamp bolt for the fuel lines. You can see the origianl hole for that bolt about an inch to an inch and a half below where I drilled and tapped the new hole moving the lines up so that will not be rubbing against the bolts in the hangers. Also did the same thing for the brake lines on the drivers side but moved it down to clear.

And here is the rear of the truck all lowered.

This lowered the truck in the rear at the center of the wheel openings a total of between both processes 3 1/2" and at the rear bumper 5".
Next it was on to the front, Using van LCA. I had a hard time tring to figure out exactly at where to drill the new holes for the strut rod bolts. The distance from the ball joint was no problem but how to determine where center was for the two holes. So i finally decided to find center of the pivot bushing run a center line to the ball joint and use that to measure exactly where the two holes needed to be. Maybe I'm over thinking all this but that strut rod postion I think is critical to control caster of the alignment. So here is a picture of the control arms.

On the left is the original in the center is the modified LCA note the ground of bump stop as well. On the right is what the van LCA looks like before you start. ON installing the LCA it's pretty straight forward unbolt & bolt. Have to drill the LCA pivot bolt mounting hole from 5/8" to 3/4". Also as putting back together make sure the spring is properly seated in its seats. When I did the first one, I got the truck together and set it down to only get 1/2" drop. I looked and said well this is disappointing along with other choice words. I had the upper part of the spring in off center and it was holding the truck up. So I jacked the truck up and with a crowbar and a big bang popped the spring back in place. set it back down and then it looked right.
And finally here is the picture of the finished drop. I'm sorry for the poor quality of this picture I will take a better one tomorrow and add it to this post.

So the final vedict on the drop, here are the numbers at the centers of the front wheel opening it is 3" at the rear its 3 1/2" at the bumpers starting with the front it droped 3" at the rear it ended up at 3 3/4".
As far as cost
$45 hangers
$40 LCA
$50 lower ball joints (optional)
$34 Front shocks (optional)
$20 3/4" drill bit to drill LCA pivot bolt hole
Free all my labor
$189 total
I think it really helped the look of the truck. This week the truck gets an alignment and tires and wheels. Also as soon as the new bushing kit comes in this week I've got a front swaybar setup from the junkyard that I'm installing.

Last edited by adventurer; 09/07/10 07:33 AM.

77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795125
09/07/10 02:27 AM
09/07/10 02:27 AM
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 2,431
SK,Canada
gregsrt Offline
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Looks awesome. I love the old Ram's.


An association of men who will not quarrel with one another is a thing which has never yet existed, from the greatest confederacy of nations down to a town meeting or a vestry. Thomas Jefferson
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795126
09/07/10 07:56 AM
09/07/10 07:56 AM
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 5,946
Greenville, PA
redraptor Offline
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Nice work! Great documentation! That should help explain exactly how to get er done.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: redraptor] #795127
09/07/10 08:52 AM
09/07/10 08:52 AM
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Posts: 252
New York
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jagrunt551 Offline
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New York
That really looks great!! You did a great job explaining each step. Can't wait to see the new wheels. Looks like your daughter is going to have a fine ride.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: jagrunt551] #795128
09/07/10 09:01 AM
09/07/10 09:01 AM
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Posts: 15,487
Florida
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scratchnfotraction Offline
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Florida




best write up on in yet

must hit the save button for this one

all the boys are gonna when she rolls up

your gonna need a bigger stick to beat them back now for sure

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: scratchnfotraction] #795129
09/07/10 09:24 AM
09/07/10 09:24 AM
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 738
TN
'84 D150 Shorty Offline
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Great post, glad to see someone else do it right before I do mine! Thanks for pointing out all the quirks! That makes it easier to plan ahead! truck looks pimpin'

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: scratchnfotraction] #795130
09/07/10 09:38 AM
09/07/10 09:38 AM
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 9,366
Lehigh Acres, Florida
rickstershemi Offline
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Clean looking truck Larry....Lucky Daughter

One thing more to do is: remove the factory Alignment Cam Adjuster Stop Plates so you can get more adjustment....ours needed the xtra range to get back to the factory alignment specs

Rickster

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: rickstershemi] #795131
09/07/10 12:30 PM
09/07/10 12:30 PM
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Joplin, MO USA
Robbins Offline
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Killer....looks good.


Moparlee
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Robbins] #795132
09/07/10 07:59 PM
09/07/10 07:59 PM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
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Thanks for all the kind comments guys, I promised better pictures of the finished drop. One that did not have the shadow on the truck. Here are a couple



77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: rickstershemi] #795133
09/07/10 08:03 PM
09/07/10 08:03 PM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
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Quote:

Clean looking truck Larry....Lucky Daughter

One thing more to do is: remove the factory Alignment Cam Adjuster Stop Plates so you can get more adjustment....ours needed the xtra range to get back to the factory alignment specs

Rickster



Rickster thanks for the advice. I really don't know what plates you are talking about could you please explain more and maybe a picture. The only plates I see are the one that the cam pushes against to adjust. Is that the one you are refering to?
Thanks
Larry


77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795134
09/07/10 09:11 PM
09/07/10 09:11 PM
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
76dodgeboy Offline
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Iowa
Looks good. You running 225 or 235 for tires

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795135
09/07/10 10:12 PM
09/07/10 10:12 PM
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Alexandria,La.
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BigTerry Offline
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Alexandria,La.
any tire rub? I like to do that to my 99 Ram

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: BigTerry] #795136
09/07/10 10:50 PM
09/07/10 10:50 PM
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 6,653
Near Reading PA USA
pinkduster Offline
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Looks good! I'd love to find a nice clean truck like that to do something similar. I'd ditch the rear bumper and get one of those fiberglas rear pans. I'd also change to a 89/90 grille and a 70s front bumper.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: pinkduster] #795137
09/07/10 11:49 PM
09/07/10 11:49 PM
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Clinton Twp. Michigan
coronet1966d Offline
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yep, i gotta do the hanger flip and get a set of those arms


Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795138
09/07/10 11:52 PM
09/07/10 11:52 PM
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Posts: 2,833
Ontario Canada
Webster Offline
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Looks Good Larry......As someone said, you have a Lucky Daughter

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: 76dodgeboy] #795139
09/08/10 12:03 AM
09/08/10 12:03 AM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
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adventurer  Offline OP
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Quote:

Looks good. You running 225 or 235 for tires



On the truck now is 235/75-15 will soon be 235/70-15 front and 255/70-15 rear.


77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: BigTerry] #795140
09/08/10 12:04 AM
09/08/10 12:04 AM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
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adventurer  Offline OP
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It's beer:30 somewhere
Quote:

any tire rub? I like to do that to my 99 Ram



No none at all.


77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: pinkduster] #795141
09/08/10 12:06 AM
09/08/10 12:06 AM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
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Quote:

Looks good! I'd love to find a nice clean truck like that to do something similar. I'd ditch the rear bumper and get one of those fiberglas rear pans. I'd also change to a 89/90 grille and a 70s front bumper.



I've been kind of thinking the same thing on the bumpers and grill. Just not completely decided what to do there yet. Thanks


77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795142
09/08/10 12:22 AM
09/08/10 12:22 AM
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 107
north carolina
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tyler_mccoy85 Offline
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north carolina
you made the drop look easy. This gives me some hope on doing my 72. Looks great. Love how you explained everything out as you went along.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795143
09/08/10 12:29 AM
09/08/10 12:29 AM
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 614
Id
M
mopeman Online content
mopar
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Id
Nice job, looks great..plan on doing the same to my '85. Where did you get the drop shackles?


Mopar or no car
MoPar=Massivly Over Powered And Respected!

'93 W250 Ram
'68 Charger
'67 Coronet 500 my steet/strip rod-now a 6BBL!
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: mopeman] #795144
09/08/10 12:35 AM
09/08/10 12:35 AM
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 3,691
MO
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cdp Offline
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MO
A friend is doing an 84 Stepside. He was wanting to lower his too, but didn't know what to do on the front.

What year LCA's are you using? Are they out of your typical dodge van?

Thanks
Chris

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795145
09/08/10 12:55 AM
09/08/10 12:55 AM
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 138
Oregon
Brian123 Offline
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Oregon
Hows does it ride?


1989 D-250,360/727
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795146
09/08/10 02:27 AM
09/08/10 02:27 AM
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
76dodgeboy Offline
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Iowa
Quote:

Quote:

Looks good! I'd love to find a nice clean truck like that to do something similar. I'd ditch the rear bumper and get one of those fiberglas rear pans. I'd also change to a 89/90 grille and a 70s front bumper.



I've been kind of thinking the same thing on the bumpers and grill. Just not completely decided what to do there yet. Thanks




Just remember the 81-85 86-90 and 91-93 have diff headlight locations. 81-85 and 86-90 are very close and grill setup can be swapped but you can see the headlight diff. Easy way is swap core support or if you can weld that way works too but 91-93 the core support and lower valance are needed aswell Looks good. My tires on my 73 Clubcab sat where yours do in the wheelwells in front but I had 205/75s. I have some pocketed control arms I plan to use with drop coils on my D code 74

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: mopeman] #795147
09/08/10 07:10 AM
09/08/10 07:10 AM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
super stock
adventurer  Offline OP
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Quote:

Nice job, looks great..plan on doing the same to my '85. Where did you get the drop shackles?



I got them from Ebay. Here is a link to the exact one I used. http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2-LOWERIN...=item588974c570


77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: cdp] #795148
09/08/10 07:13 AM
09/08/10 07:13 AM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
super stock
adventurer  Offline OP
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Quote:

A friend is doing an 84 Stepside. He was wanting to lower his too, but didn't know what to do on the front.

What year LCA's are you using? Are they out of your typical dodge van?

Thanks
Chris



Mine came from a 82 3/4 ton van. The junkyard I went to had several of these vans one as new as 90 and the arms all looked the same. Maybe someone else with a little more knowledge can chime in and say what exact year models work. My understanding is any 3/4 or 1 ton van in those year models.


77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Brian123] #795149
09/08/10 07:14 AM
09/08/10 07:14 AM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
super stock
adventurer  Offline OP
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Quote:

Hows does it ride?



Very well. Not much differnt than before it was lowered.


77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795150
09/08/10 09:25 AM
09/08/10 09:25 AM
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 2,833
Ontario Canada
Webster Offline
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Webster  Offline
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Ontario Canada
Hey Larry I used stock shocks when I did mine I think I'm going to change them to something a little stronger....What did you use? The same on the back. The Truck is good on semi smooth road but a bear on those bad roads.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795151
09/08/10 09:52 AM
09/08/10 09:52 AM
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 738
TN
'84 D150 Shorty Offline
Pickup Man
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TN

Quote:

Quote:

A friend is doing an 84 Stepside. He was wanting to lower his too, but didn't know what to do on the front.

What year LCA's are you using? Are they out of your typical dodge van?

Thanks
Chris



Mine came from a 82 3/4 ton van. The junkyard I went to had several of these vans one as new as 90 and the arms all looked the same. Maybe someone else with a little more knowledge can chime in and say what exact year models work. My understanding is any 3/4 or 1 ton van in those year models.




LCAs from B250s as well as newer B2500 are will work until at least '97 (mine are from a '97 B2500)

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795152
09/08/10 10:17 AM
09/08/10 10:17 AM
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 9,366
Lehigh Acres, Florida
rickstershemi Offline
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Lehigh Acres, Florida
Quote:

Quote:

Clean looking truck Larry....Lucky Daughter

One thing more to do is: remove the factory Alignment Cam Adjuster Stop Plates so you can get more adjustment....ours needed the xtra range to get back to the factory alignment specs

Rickster




Rickster thanks for the advice. I really don't know what plates you are talking about could you please explain more and maybe a picture. The only plates I see are the one that the cam pushes against to adjust. Is that the one you are refering to? Thanks
Larry




Yes those are the plates I'm referring too....had to remove them on our truck to get additional range to be in spec

Rickster

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Webster] #795153
09/08/10 10:41 AM
09/08/10 10:41 AM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
super stock
adventurer  Offline OP
super stock

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Quote:

Hey Larry I used stock shocks when I did mine I think I'm going to change them to something a little stronger....What did you use? The same on the back. The Truck is good on semi smooth road but a bear on those bad roads.



Hey Terry,
I only changed the front shocks because I had the old ones out and they looked like the originals. I just used a stock replacement shock for it. The rears had been changed at some point and time. I'll have to drive it more to see how the ride is after I get it aligned on Thursday. so far I really don't see that much diffence in ride quality. On the front shocks changing the arms really didn't shorten the shock travel because the mounting point for the shock is lowered as well. So I wouldn't think changing the shock to a differnt shock on the front would help. Maybe cutting down the rubber bump stop. Now on the rear thats a diffenrt story. By lowering the truck it has shortened that shocks travel and it could be bottoming out. I am just going to drive it and see. If it feels harsh as far as bumps that it may be bottoming the shock out, I'll find a shorter shock for the rear. Maybe my roads are just smoother than your's Terry


77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795154
09/08/10 01:55 PM
09/08/10 01:55 PM
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 2,833
Ontario Canada
Webster Offline
master
Webster  Offline
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Ontario Canada
Quote:

Quote:

Hey Larry I used stock shocks when I did mine I think I'm going to change them to something a little stronger....What did you use? The same on the back. The Truck is good on semi smooth road but a bear on those bad roads.



Hey Terry,
I only changed the front shocks because I had the old ones out and they looked like the originals. I just used a stock replacement shock for it. The rears had been changed at some point and time. I'll have to drive it more to see how the ride is after I get it aligned on Thursday. so far I really don't see that much diffence in ride quality. On the front shocks changing the arms really didn't shorten the shock travel because the mounting point for the shock is lowered as well. So I wouldn't think changing the shock to a differnt shock on the front would help. Maybe cutting down the rubber bump stop. Now on the rear thats a diffenrt story. By lowering the truck it has shortened that shocks travel and it could be bottoming out. I am just going to drive it and see. If it feels harsh as far as bumps that it may be bottoming the shock out, I'll find a shorter shock for the rear. Maybe my roads are just smoother than your's Terry




I'm sure your roads are better than ours
I cut the bump stops off of mine when I first lowered mine, no issue so far (over 5 Years) you might be right about the back shocks bottoming out ,I'll check too

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Webster] #795155
09/09/10 12:01 AM
09/09/10 12:01 AM
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 158
Michigan
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Mopar366 Offline
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Michigan
what kind of chevy are the 2" drop shackles off of? and what year van for the lca's


1982 d150 1993 dakota
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Mopar366] #795156
09/09/10 12:44 AM
09/09/10 12:44 AM
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Back home in PA
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BulletBob Offline
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Back home in PA
The LCA's come from the 1st year B van to 2001 that I know of with 5 lugs. 1st year being 71 or 72.The shackles I use are 88-98 Chevy 1500. I'll be doin the same to my daughter's white shorty soon.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Mopar366] #795157
09/09/10 01:46 AM
09/09/10 01:46 AM
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
76dodgeboy Offline
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Iowa
Quote:

what kind of chevy are the 2" drop shackles off of? and what year van for the lca's



You can go to autozone and get the drop shakles for $30

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Mopar366] #795158
09/09/10 11:39 AM
09/09/10 11:39 AM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
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It's beer:30 somewhere
Quote:

what kind of chevy are the 2" drop shackles off of? and what year van for the lca's



Heres a link to the exact drop shackles I used.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2-LOWERIN...=item588974c570
LCA I used were from a 82 3/4 ton van.


77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795159
09/09/10 02:31 PM
09/09/10 02:31 PM
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 9,366
Lehigh Acres, Florida
rickstershemi Offline
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Lehigh Acres, Florida
Quote:

Quote:

what kind of chevy are the 2" drop shackles off of? and what year van for the lca's



Heres a link to the exact drop shackles I used.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2-LOWERIN...=item588974c570
LCA I used were from a 82 3/4 ton van.




Those are the same exact shackles we used

Rickster

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: rickstershemi] #795160
09/12/10 01:20 AM
09/12/10 01:20 AM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
super stock
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It's beer:30 somewhere
Latest update. Got the alignment done. While doing the alignment noticed the lower bump stop rubber bumpers were setting against the lower control arm at ride height. Unbolted them while doing the alignment. Which I beleive is going to be a mistake. Got the new wheels on today and really drove it quite a bit. When you hit a large bump in the road the lower control arm is coming in contact with the metal where the rubber bump stop bolted on and you get a loud clunk noise. So I am going to look into what I need to do for that. Any body else have an idea there? Now on to the pics of it as it is right now.


just for comparison here is where I started

Quite a bit of differnce there, if I do say so myself. I think it looks a lot better.


77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795161
09/12/10 01:43 AM
09/12/10 01:43 AM
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 2,833
Ontario Canada
Webster Offline
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Ontario Canada
When I did mine, I drove it to the end of the street and saw the same thing. Cut them off and had no trouble after that. If I hit that big of a bump she all over with anyway
Your Truck is lookin really Good

Last edited by Webster; 09/12/10 01:44 AM.
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Webster] #795162
09/12/10 10:09 AM
09/12/10 10:09 AM
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 9,366
Lehigh Acres, Florida
rickstershemi Offline
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Lehigh Acres, Florida
Quote:

When I did mine, I drove it to the end of the street and saw the same thing. Cut them off and had no trouble after that. If I hit that big of a bump she all over with anyway
Your Truck is lookin really Good




did the same thing....have had no problems although we didn't remove them I just trimmed them up 1" and never hits, but there if an extreme pot-hole may be encountered

Rickster

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: rickstershemi] #795163
09/12/10 04:31 PM
09/12/10 04:31 PM
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
76dodgeboy Offline
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Iowa
When I cut a coil and a half out it sat on the bumpstop brackets(rubber was gone)I drove it that way for just over a yr before the motor gave and I live 25 miles from work. Mine was my dd so couldnt really tear it back apart but it was only rough when the roads were bad. I chanded the travel aswell so the coils wouldnt flop around when the suspension was working

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: 76dodgeboy] #795164
09/12/10 10:01 PM
09/12/10 10:01 PM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
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It's beer:30 somewhere
I took today and cut 1 1/4" off the rubber piece and reinstalled. Worked fine no more large clunk when hitting bumps. Just curious though has anyone ever cut out that metal piece that the bump stop bolts to so the suspension could travel farther?


77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795165
09/12/10 10:14 PM
09/12/10 10:14 PM
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 3,688
Alexandria,La.
B
BigTerry Offline
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Alexandria,La.
the van lower control arm, I was wondering if it would work on a 99 ram hummm...

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795166
09/13/10 01:00 AM
09/13/10 01:00 AM
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
76dodgeboy Offline
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Iowa
Quote:

I took today and cut 1 1/4" off the rubber piece and reinstalled. Worked fine no more large clunk when hitting bumps. Just curious though has anyone ever cut out that metal piece that the bump stop bolts to so the suspension could travel farther?




Thats what they are refering to when they say they cut it out meaning they cut the whole bumpstop bracket out. Some have shortened the bracket aswell

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795167
09/13/10 02:25 AM
09/13/10 02:25 AM
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,961
ID/MT
C
Cheeto Offline
top fuel
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C

Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,961
ID/MT
Quote:

Just curious though has anyone ever cut out that metal piece that the bump stop bolts to so the suspension could travel farther?



Yes...in 2001...no troubles since.

Nice write-up by the way. I've got a buddy about to lower a '93 Ramcharger and this thread will be easier than me trying to explain everything to him.

6193242-cheeto78q.jpg (1881 downloads)

Cheeto
It's not perfect.
It's not correct.
It's not yours!
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795168
09/13/10 11:28 PM
09/13/10 11:28 PM
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 718
Nunnelly, TN
Kevin I Offline
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Nunnelly, TN
I joined this site just now because I was linked to this write-up. I'll be doing the same thing to my 1980 big block D150 if I can find the lower control arms. Excellent write up.

I have one question. Did you use the existing coils up front?

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Kevin I] #795169
09/13/10 11:44 PM
09/13/10 11:44 PM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
super stock
adventurer  Offline OP
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Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
Quote:

I joined this site just now because I was linked to this write-up. I'll be doing the same thing to my 1980 big block D150 if I can find the lower control arms. Excellent write up.

I have one question. Did you use the existing coils up front?




Hello and welcome Kevin. Thanks for joining our group here. Yes you use the existing springs from your truck. Since you don't already have the lower control arms, I looked at the Pull-a-Part junkyard website for your area, they show at least 11 likely canidate vans for donors. If you have any more questions don't hesitate to ask. It really is a pretty simple deal to do this.
Kevin are you going to the Music City Mopar Show on the 25th and 26th, since it's right in your neck of the woods? We'll be there with both my trucks for the weekend.

Last edited by adventurer; 09/13/10 11:45 PM.

77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795170
09/13/10 11:48 PM
09/13/10 11:48 PM
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 718
Nunnelly, TN
Kevin I Offline
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Kevin I  Offline
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Posts: 718
Nunnelly, TN
Quote:

Hello and welcome Kevin. Thanks for joining our group here. Yes you use the existing springs from your truck. Since you don't already have the lower control arms, I looked at the Pull-a-Part junkyard website for your area, they show at least 11 likely canidate vans for donors. If you have any more questions don't hesitate to ask. It really is a pretty simple deal to do this.




I was there a couple weeks ago. It is just up the hill from where I work. I'll have to take my tools to work with me one day.

Quote:

Kevin are you going to the Music City Mopar Show on the 25th and 26th, since it's right in your neck of the woods? We'll be there with both my trucks for the weekend.




Great! I am planning to go. I look forward to meeting you and seeing your trucks. I don't know if I will bring any of my junk. I just finished lowering my 1998 SS/T and it still needs an alignment and the 1980 big block truck needs a few things done to it. I'll probably be in my wife's boring ole Durango.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Kevin I] #795171
09/14/10 09:01 AM
09/14/10 09:01 AM
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 15,487
Florida
S
scratchnfotraction Offline
I Live Here
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Posts: 15,487
Florida


welcome to the board

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Cheeto] #795172
09/14/10 08:41 PM
09/14/10 08:41 PM
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 2,833
Ontario Canada
Webster Offline
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Webster  Offline
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Ontario Canada
As I said before mine were cut off 5 years ago

6196457-DSC02005.jpg (742 downloads)
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Kevin I] #795173
09/14/10 09:32 PM
09/14/10 09:32 PM
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 9,366
Lehigh Acres, Florida
rickstershemi Offline
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rickstershemi  Offline
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Lehigh Acres, Florida
Quote:

I joined this site just now because I was linked to this write-up. I'll be doing the same thing to my 1980 big block D150 if I can find the lower control arms. Excellent write up.

I have one question. Did you use the existing coils up front?




Welcome to the Madness Kev

Rickster

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Webster] #795174
09/14/10 09:34 PM
09/14/10 09:34 PM
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 9,366
Lehigh Acres, Florida
rickstershemi Offline
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Lehigh Acres, Florida
Quote:

As I said before mine were cut off years ago




Hmmmmm....must be married

Rickster

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: rickstershemi] #795175
09/14/10 09:44 PM
09/14/10 09:44 PM
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 2,833
Ontario Canada
Webster Offline
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Webster  Offline
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Ontario Canada
Quote:

Quote:

As I said before mine were cut off years ago




Hmmmmm....must be married

Rickster



You're Right 33 years

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795176
09/19/10 10:17 AM
09/19/10 10:17 AM
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 11
South Carolina
J
Jere Offline
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Jere  Offline
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Posts: 11
South Carolina
Great write up. I just have a few questions. I am lowering a '93 dodge dually. I already have the lower control arms that you all are using. For shorter springs I went with '94 3" lowering springs to get 2" of lowered ride height. in the back I replaced the stock shackles and replaced the front hangers with raised hangers. The stance is great but I ran into the issue of the tierods hitting the center link. and the steering input shaft hitting the upper control arm. How have you all worked these issues out. Is there a post on here that address it.
Thanks for all the help

6204485-0915001743.jpg (608 downloads)
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Jere] #795177
09/19/10 03:22 PM
09/19/10 03:22 PM
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 705
lakeside ca
1moparman Offline
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1moparman  Offline
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Posts: 705
lakeside ca
for your set up your going to have to to mount your ties rods on the bottom side of the steering knuckles you'll have to get a reamer or have a shop do it.your going have to lower your strut arms below your arms by a block or someother means on the top. I haven't done it yet but I was going to cut a piece of tubing in half and cut out a relief in the control arm and weld the 1/2 piece tubing. you folowing me. my trucks not quite as low as you used 3" drop springs (not sure if thats been done before) any way in my truck (I have no bump stops) I have hit the steering shaft the other day I was hauling butt trough a dip. so I was going to do the control arm mod and reattach a cut down bump stop, also I still have yet to buy my new dropped shocks so this might help also


Get Real Get Mopar
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Webster] #795178
09/19/10 03:30 PM
09/19/10 03:30 PM
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 705
lakeside ca
1moparman Offline
super stock
1moparman  Offline
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Posts: 705
lakeside ca
Quote:

As I said before mine were cut off 5 years ago



nice lookin truck


Get Real Get Mopar
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: 1moparman] #795179
09/19/10 06:28 PM
09/19/10 06:28 PM
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 11
South Carolina
J
Jere Offline
member
Jere  Offline
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South Carolina
Ok I am following you, but will I have enough meat left in my spindle after reaming it from the bottom. The 1-ton tierod are larger than the half ton stuff.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Jere] #795180
09/19/10 06:37 PM
09/19/10 06:37 PM
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
76dodgeboy Offline
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76dodgeboy  Offline
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Iowa
Quote:

Great write up. I just have a few questions. I am lowering a '93 dodge dually. I already have the lower control arms that you all are using. For shorter springs I went with '94 3" lowering springs to get 2" of lowered ride height. in the back I replaced the stock shackles and replaced the front hangers with raised hangers. The stance is great but I ran into the issue of the tierods hitting the center link. and the steering input shaft hitting the upper control arm. How have you all worked these issues out. Is there a post on here that address it.
Thanks for all the help



You dropped it more the 2". Stock 3/4 and half ton springs are what you want for 2" Go to rockauto.com and search the springs. They give load hieghts. These guys keep thier stock springs with these lower control arms. 1tons have a taller coil than half and 3/4.. I plan to do the opposite with my 3/4 ton and lift it with 94 4wd coils. Stock my coils are at 11.." tall and 94 4wds are 15"

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Jere] #795181
09/20/10 01:40 AM
09/20/10 01:40 AM
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 705
lakeside ca
1moparman Offline
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1moparman  Offline
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lakeside ca
Quote:

Ok I am following you, but will I have enough meat left in my spindle after reaming it from the bottom. The 1-ton tierod are larger than the half ton stuff.


not sure I haven't done it my self only heard of it being done I have drilled it out completely and installed heim joints.


Get Real Get Mopar
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: 76dodgeboy] #795182
09/20/10 06:27 PM
09/20/10 06:27 PM
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 11
South Carolina
J
Jere Offline
member
Jere  Offline
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J

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 11
South Carolina
Thanks for all the help



You dropped it more the 2". Stock 3/4 and half ton springs are what you want for 2" Go to rockauto.com and search the springs. They give load hieghts. These guys keep thier stock springs with these lower control arms. 1tons have a taller coil than half and 3/4.. I plan to do the opposite with my 3/4 ton and lift it with 94 4wd coils. Stock my coils are at 11.." tall and 94 4wds are 15"



Being that my truck is a '93 d350 it rides lower than the 1/2 ton trucks already I put 94 3500 3" lowering springs in to get a 2" drop. If I am following you correctly that is where you get more than 2". Providing the spring shop sold me the correct springs.
What heim joints would I use to mate the tierod to the spindles N E idea.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Jere] #795183
09/20/10 07:12 PM
09/20/10 07:12 PM
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
76dodgeboy Offline
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Iowa
It doesnt ride lower. Half and 3/4 tons use a coil that is 11" tall when on the ground and yours are 13.13" when on the ground installed on the truck so its actually only .13" taller do to the pocket. Free hieght for the stock 94 coils are 12.92dr and 12.63ps and thats not loaded. so take 3" out of than and its 9" for both plus 2"for the coil totaling 5" of drop. Did you put the springs side by side?

Last edited by 76dodgeboy; 09/20/10 07:12 PM.
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: 76dodgeboy] #795184
09/21/10 09:00 PM
09/21/10 09:00 PM
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 11
South Carolina
J
Jere Offline
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Jere  Offline
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Posts: 11
South Carolina
I follow now. Sorry just a little slow on your thinking. I was told that a 3" drop on a 94 would equal a 2" drop on a 93. I guess I would be better off taking off the 94 springs and cutting 1 coil on my old springs for a 2" drop for now so I don't have to deal with the steering and the ball joint angle right now.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Jere] #795185
09/22/10 02:09 AM
09/22/10 02:09 AM
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
76dodgeboy Offline
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Iowa
Thats the case if it didnt have the pocketed control arms. I plan to use 94 up drop coils in one of my trucks aswell. Want to sell yours? I have more than 1 truck I have a set of stock 1/2 ton coils you can have to see where itll sit than you can buy new or use them

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795186
09/22/10 01:55 PM
09/22/10 01:55 PM
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 718
Nunnelly, TN
Kevin I Offline
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Kevin I  Offline
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Nunnelly, TN
I went to Pull-A-Part here in Nashville today. It appears that ALL vans have the same lower control arm. I looked at two half ton vans and the lower control arms looked the same as the ones in the 3/4 ton and ton vans. Does this sound right?

I also wasn't able to break lower control arm loose from the steering knuckle in the junkyard. I asked if they could do it for a fee and they won't. Maybe I can find some loose somewhere. Do any of you guys have a pair for sale?

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Kevin I] #795187
09/22/10 02:31 PM
09/22/10 02:31 PM
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
76dodgeboy Offline
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Iowa
From what Ive seen at the jy I would agree but you best bet is go to rockauto.com and compare balljoints and control arm bushings. I believe 1 ton vans have a bigger bj for sure. I believe another member awhile back posted pics of what he had and it was bigger

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: 76dodgeboy] #795188
09/22/10 09:26 PM
09/22/10 09:26 PM
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 11
South Carolina
J
Jere Offline
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Jere  Offline
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J

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 11
South Carolina
Half ton springs won't work for me cause I am a diesel. But I may sell them. Do you think 1 coil cut off will drop the front 2 in.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Kevin I] #795189
09/23/10 01:17 AM
09/23/10 01:17 AM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
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adventurer  Offline OP
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It's beer:30 somewhere
Quote:

I went to Pull-A-Part here in Nashville today. It appears that ALL vans have the same lower control arm. I looked at two half ton vans and the lower control arms looked the same as the ones in the 3/4 ton and ton vans. Does this sound right?

I also wasn't able to break lower control arm loose from the steering knuckle in the junkyard. I asked if they could do it for a fee and they won't. Maybe I can find some loose somewhere. Do any of you guys have a pair for sale?




Kevin on breaking the arm loose from the knuckle I couldn't on mine either, I took out the two bolts that hold the lower part of the knuckle to the upper part, if my memory is right it takes a 15/16" socket and wrench to get these loose, this is the part that the lower ball joint goes through and just bought them that way. Then when I got them home I was able to seperate the ball joint from that lower part of the knuckle. As far as I know on your question about 1/2 ton vans. I'm pretty sure as long as they have the spring pocket in the arm they are the same. Hope this helps you. See ya at the Music City show.


77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Jere] #795190
09/23/10 01:55 AM
09/23/10 01:55 AM
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
76dodgeboy Offline
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Iowa
Quote:

Half ton springs won't work for me cause I am a diesel. But I may sell them. Do you think 1 coil cut off will drop the front 2 in.



You could try 1 and see where it sits and if need be remove a 1/2 at a time after that. I took 1.5 coils out on my 73 Clubcab and it road on the bumpstop brackets. Id give it a shot. Nothing to loose

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795191
09/23/10 09:20 AM
09/23/10 09:20 AM
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 718
Nunnelly, TN
Kevin I Offline
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Kevin I  Offline
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Nunnelly, TN
Quote:

Kevin on breaking the arm loose from the knuckle I couldn't on mine either, I took out the two bolts that hold the lower part of the knuckle to the upper part, if my memory is right it takes a 15/16" socket and wrench to get these loose, this is the part that the lower ball joint goes through and just bought them that way. Then when I got them home I was able to seperate the ball joint from that lower part of the knuckle. As far as I know on your question about 1/2 ton vans. I'm pretty sure as long as they have the spring pocket in the arm they are the same. Hope this helps you. See ya at the Music City show.




Thanks for the tip. I was kinda frustrated yesterday. I didn't have much time to do it (lunch break) and some goober started taking something off the rear axle when I was tugging on it. I was afraid I'd knock the van off the wheels they had it propped up on and crush the guy, so I left.

I gotta put some tires on my wife's Durango Saturday morning. After that, I'm heading to Lebanon for the Mopar show. I'll see you there.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: 76dodgeboy] #795192
10/03/10 09:27 PM
10/03/10 09:27 PM
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 11
South Carolina
J
Jere Offline
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J

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Posts: 11
South Carolina
Quote:

It doesnt ride lower. Half and 3/4 tons use a coil that is 11" tall when on the ground and yours are 13.13" when on the ground installed on the truck so its actually only .13" taller do to the pocket. Free hieght for the stock 94 coils are 12.92dr and 12.63ps and thats not loaded. so take 3" out of than and its 9" for both plus 2"for the coil totaling 5" of drop. Did you put the springs side by side?




Ok so I removed the '94 dodge 3500 springs from my 93 dodge d350. I don't think that the company sent me the right springs. They are the same length but the coil thickness is alot thinner. The ammount of winding are the same too. This would explain why everything is so low in the front.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795193
10/15/10 07:40 PM
10/15/10 07:40 PM
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 718
Nunnelly, TN
Kevin I Offline
super stock
Kevin I  Offline
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Joined: Sep 2010
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Nunnelly, TN
Quote:

Kevin on breaking the arm loose from the knuckle I couldn't on mine either, I took out the two bolts that hold the lower part of the knuckle to the upper part, if my memory is right it takes a 15/16" socket and wrench to get these loose, this is the part that the lower ball joint goes through and just bought them that way. Then when I got them home I was able to seperate the ball joint from that lower part of the knuckle. As far as I know on your question about 1/2 ton vans. I'm pretty sure as long as they have the spring pocket in the arm they are the same. Hope this helps you. See ya at the Music City show.




You were right. They were 15/16". It was so easy knowing that. The hardest part was getting that nut off the top of the shock. Now, I gotta clean them up and paint them. I can't decide if I will lower the rear with the flipped hangers/longer shackles or flip the axle on top of the leafs. I will probably lower the front and see what I have there and decide then.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Kevin I] #795194
10/15/10 09:49 PM
10/15/10 09:49 PM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
super stock
adventurer  Offline OP
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It's beer:30 somewhere
Yeah that makes it a lot easier by taking those bolts out. On the axle on top of the springs I personally have not done it but my understanding is that you ended up with about a 4 1/2" to 5" drop which I kind of think is to much for my tatse but to each their own. Good luck with it Kevin. Keep us posted.
Larry


77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795195
01/22/11 01:08 PM
01/22/11 01:08 PM
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 135
Springfield, Ohio
S
shortbed88 Offline
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Posts: 135
Springfield, Ohio
Sorry to drag up an old post, but thought this question might be better answered here. I have van pocketed arms and new Trw 3/4 ton springs in the garage waiting for warmer weather. I had planned on trimming the 3/4 ton springs before I put them in, but I can't decide how much. My truck also has a horrible case of the dodge lean. I have almost 1 inch on lean to the driver side. So should I cut one round off the new springs, or would it be better to stagger them say, one full round drive side and a half round passenger. Or should the new springs solve the lean. I would like to get this truck low. In the range of the mid america kit. I am seriously considering a spring over in the rear since I am changing the rearend. I have an 3.55 limited slip rearend sitting in the "truck parts pile".
Thanks for the help.


1988 Dodge D100 Short bed
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: shortbed88] #795196
01/22/11 01:26 PM
01/22/11 01:26 PM
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 705
lakeside ca
1moparman Offline
super stock
1moparman  Offline
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Posts: 705
lakeside ca
i'm not sure about the 3/4 ton springs but I cut 1/2 coil on each(I had no lean)and used my stock coils (/6) and the van control arms (and flipped the back I run 235 70 15 on the front and 255 70 15 on the rear

6432149-IMAG0069.jpg (3040 downloads)

Get Real Get Mopar
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: 1moparman] #795197
01/22/11 01:38 PM
01/22/11 01:38 PM
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 135
Springfield, Ohio
S
shortbed88 Offline
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shortbed88  Offline
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Posts: 135
Springfield, Ohio
Thanks 1moparman, That is the look I am going for. I may try trimming up my stock springs before I cut up the new ones. Maybe I can trim the passenger side to compensate for the lean.


1988 Dodge D100 Short bed
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: 1moparman] #795198
01/22/11 01:40 PM
01/22/11 01:40 PM
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 2,682
Clinton Twp. Michigan
coronet1966d Offline
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coronet1966d  Offline
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Posts: 2,682
Clinton Twp. Michigan
from what i could tell at the parts store the /6 and small block springs are the same, my truck with /6 springs and a big block is way too soft in the front. im planning on trying stock height 3/4 ton springs


if i were you id install the 3/4 springs at stock height and check if that corrects your lean issue. then remove and trim as you see fit

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: coronet1966d] #795199
01/22/11 03:35 PM
01/22/11 03:35 PM
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
76dodgeboy Offline
master
76dodgeboy  Offline
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Posts: 8,064
Iowa
3/4 ton and half ton share the same front coils unless heavy duty. The heavy duty ones are basically one ton and are taller than 3/4&1/2 tons and are what is used with the Pocketed control arms.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: 76dodgeboy] #795200
01/22/11 03:40 PM
01/22/11 03:40 PM
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
76dodgeboy Offline
master
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Posts: 8,064
Iowa
Rockauto.com
1/2 ton
1990 DODGE D150 PICKUP 5.2L 318cid V8 TBI (Y) OHV : Suspension : Coil Spring Wiki Price
RAYBESTOS Part # 5851080 Professional Grade; Sold in Pairs -- Inside Diameter=4" Wire Diameter=.812" Free Height=12.6" Load height=10.5"
Front

$73.79
Add to Cart
MOOG Part # 7170 Sold In Pairs
Frt Susp; Standard Duty Replacement; Constant Rate Springs

$76.79
Add to Cart
RAYBESTOS Part # 5851081 Professional Grade; Sold in Pairs -- Inside Diameter=4" Wire Diameter=.820" Free Height=12.5" Load height=11"
Front; Heavy Duty

$81.79
Add to Cart
ROCKWELL Part # RC7170 Sold In Pairs
Front; w/ AC; w/ M/T; Pickup
Front; w/ AC; w/ A/T; Pickup
Front; w/o AC; w/A/T; Pickup
Front; w/o AC; w/M/T; Pickup (Only 1 Remaining)

$81.79
Add to Cart
ROCKWELL Part # RC7172 Sold In Pairs
Front; w/o AC; w/A/T; Heavy Duty; Pickup
Front; w/ AC; w/ A/T; Heavy Duty; Super Duty; Pickup
Front; w/o AC; w/M/T; Heavy Duty; Pickup
Front; w/ AC; w/ M/T; Heavy Duty; Pickup
Front; w/ AC; w/ M/T; Heavy Duty; Super Duty; Pickup
Front; w/o AC; w/M/T; Heavy Duty; Super Duty; Pickup
Front; w/ AC; w/ A/T; Heavy Duty; Pickup
Front; w/o AC; w/A/T; Heavy Duty; Super Duty; Pickup (Only 2 Remaining)

$81.79
Add to Cart
MOOG Part # 7172 Sold In Pairs
Frt Susp; Heavy Duty Replacement; Constant Rate Springs

$82.99
Add to Cart
RAYBESTOS Part # 5851212 Professional Grade; Sold in Pairs -- Inside Diameter=4" Wire Diameter=.828" Free Height=13.02" Load height=11"
Front; Severe Duty

$88.79
Add to Cart
MOOG Part # 7172S Sold In Pairs
Frt Susp; Severe Duty Replacement; Constant Rate Springs

$91.89
Add to Cart

3/4 ton
1990 DODGE D250 PICKUP 5.2L 318cid V8 TBI (Y) OHV : Suspension : Coil Spring Wiki Price
RAYBESTOS Part # 5851080 Professional Grade; Sold in Pairs -- Inside Diameter=4" Wire Diameter=.812" Free Height=12.6" Load height=10.5"
Front; Except 4000 Lb Axle

$73.79
Add to Cart
MOOG Part # 7170 Sold In Pairs
Frt Susp; Exc. IFS-4000; Constant Rate Springs

$76.79
Add to Cart
RAYBESTOS Part # 5851081 Professional Grade; Sold in Pairs -- Inside Diameter=4" Wire Diameter=.820" Free Height=12.5" Load height=11"
Front; Except 4000 Lb Axle; Heavy Duty

$81.79
Add to Cart
ROCKWELL Part # RC7172 Sold In Pairs
Front; w/ AC; w/ M/T; Heavy Duty; Super Duty; Exc. IFS-4000
Front; w/ AC; w/ A/T; Heavy Duty; Exc. IFS-4000
Front; w/ AC; w/ M/T; Heavy Duty; Exc. IFS-4000
Front; w/ AC; w/ A/T; Heavy Duty; Super Duty; Exc. IFS-4000
Front; w/o AC; w/A/T; Heavy Duty; Super Duty; Exc. IFS-4000
Front; w/o AC; w/M/T; Heavy Duty; Super Duty; Exc. IFS-4000
Front; w/o AC; w/A/T; Heavy Duty; Exc. IFS-4000
Front; w/o AC; w/M/T; Heavy Duty; Exc. IFS-4000 (Only 2 Remaining)

$81.79
Add to Cart
ROCKWELL Part # RC7170 Sold In Pairs
Front; w/o AC; w/A/T; Exc. IFS-4000
Front; w/ AC; w/ A/T; Exc. IFS-4000
Front; w/o AC; w/M/T; Exc. IFS-4000
Front; w/ AC; w/ M/T; Exc. IFS-4000 (Only 1 Remaining)

$81.79
Add to Cart
MOOG Part # 7172 Sold In Pairs
Frt Susp; Exc. IFS-4000; Heavy Duty Replacement; Constant Rate Springs

$82.99
Add to Cart
RAYBESTOS Part # 5851212 Professional Grade; Sold in Pairs -- Inside Diameter=4" Wire Diameter=.828" Free Height=13.02" Load height=11"
Front; Except 4000 Lb Axle; Severe Duty

$88.79
Add to Cart
MOOG Part # 7172S Sold In Pairs
Frt Susp; Exc. IFS-4000; Super Duty Replacement; Constant Rate Springs

$91.89
Add to Cart
ROCKWELL Part # RC7226 Sold In Pairs
Front; w/ AC; w/ M/T; Heavy Duty; Super Duty; w/ IFS-4000
Front; w/ AC; w/ A/T; Heavy Duty; w/ IFS-4000
Front; w/o AC; w/M/T; Heavy Duty; w/ IFS-4000
Front; w/ AC; w/ M/T; Heavy Duty; w/ IFS-4000
Front; w/o AC; w/A/T; Heavy Duty; Super Duty; w/ IFS-4000
Front; w/ AC; w/ A/T; Heavy Duty; Super Duty; w/ IFS-4000
Front; w/o AC; w/M/T; Heavy Duty; Super Duty; w/ IFS-4000
Front; w/o AC; w/A/T; Heavy Duty; w/ IFS-4000 (Only 2 Remaining)

$107.79
Add to Cart
RAYBESTOS Part # 5851108 Professional Grade; Sold in Pairs -- Inside Diameter=3.99" Wire Diameter=.906" Free Height=14.65" Load height=13.13"
Front; 4000 Lb Axle; Heavy Duty

$108.79
Add to Cart
MOOG Part # 7226 Sold In Pairs
Frt Susp; w/IFS-4000; Heavy Duty Replacement; Constant Rate Springs

$113.79
Add to Cart
RAYBESTOS Part # 5851213 Professional Grade; Sold in Pairs -- Inside Diameter=4" Wire Diameter=.906" Free Height=15.1" Load height=13.13"
Front; 4000 Lb Axle; Severe Duty

$126.79
Add to Cart
MOOG Part # 7226S Sold In Pairs
Frt Susp; w/IFS-4000; Super Duty Replacement; Constant Rate Springs

$130.79
Add to Cart
ROCKWELL Part # TT7215 Sold In Pairs
Front; HD Upgrade; 3500lb Rating; 3" Lift Over New Stock Height; 2WD (Only 2 Remaining)

$282.79
Add to Cart

1ton

Last edited by 76dodgeboy; 01/22/11 03:41 PM.
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795201
03/11/11 08:55 PM
03/11/11 08:55 PM
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 718
Nunnelly, TN
Kevin I Offline
super stock
Kevin I  Offline
super stock

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 718
Nunnelly, TN
I finally got my arms painted. I started on lowering the front last Sat. but smashing my fingers (bled through my left ring finger nail) while loosening the pivot bolt and trouble locating a 3/4" drill bit has held me up. I fooled with it a little today after work. The holes in my driver's side control arm didn't line up with the ones on the pivot bracket. I found that the metal around the pivot bushing was up against the pivot bracket. I had to grind off a little metal around the top on both sides to leave some room for the arm to move.

I had to drive around to find a 3/4" drill bit. I finally ended up buying one of those unibits. I had to drill the front and back for both holes to get it right because the steps aren't wide enough on the unibit.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #795202
03/24/11 09:10 PM
03/24/11 09:10 PM
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 88
CANADA B.C.
PROPANEPOWER Offline
member
PROPANEPOWER  Offline
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Joined: May 2004
Posts: 88
CANADA B.C.
what year lca's are you guys using for lowering the trucks are all the dodge van lca's the same?

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: PROPANEPOWER] #795203
03/24/11 10:36 PM
03/24/11 10:36 PM
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
76dodgeboy Offline
master
76dodgeboy  Offline
master

Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
Yes the van control arms are the same up to 97 I believe but the 1 tons take a big balljoint and you'll have to ream out your spindle for the bigger balljoint IIRC correctly. You can go to rockauto.com and search the yrs to see when they changed and the diff bj's

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: 76dodgeboy] #795204
03/24/11 11:11 PM
03/24/11 11:11 PM
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 83
Ontario Canada
Eck Offline
member
Eck  Offline
member

Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 83
Ontario Canada
you want the b250....the ball joint is the same as the d150

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Eck] #795205
03/25/11 02:18 AM
03/25/11 02:18 AM
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
76dodgeboy Offline
master
76dodgeboy  Offline
master

Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
The 300-350 has a 3600lb axle(same as 1/2 and 3/4) and a 3800-4000lb axle wich is a diff bj. I just posted in this thread about it
https://board.moparts.org/ubbthreads/show...e=0#Post6548150

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: 76dodgeboy] #795206
02/06/13 08:55 PM
02/06/13 08:55 PM
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 16,803
Between Houston & Galveston TX
SattyNoCar Offline
Smarter than no class Flappergass by a mile
SattyNoCar  Offline
Smarter than no class Flappergass by a mile

Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 16,803
Between Houston & Galveston TX
Just giving this a since there have been questions on lowering and van LCA's....



Why isn't this in the archives? Good info here with good pics, what more do you need?


John

The dream is dead, long live the dream.......😥
Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: SattyNoCar] #795207
02/07/13 02:33 AM
02/07/13 02:33 AM
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 6,048
Back home in PA
B
BulletBob Offline
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BulletBob  Offline
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Posts: 6,048
Back home in PA
Repetition eventually even those who don't want to lower their trucks will know how to.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: BulletBob] #795208
02/07/13 10:50 PM
02/07/13 10:50 PM
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 168
Washington State, USA
W
Winchester 73 Offline
member
Winchester 73  Offline
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Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 168
Washington State, USA
so i see some guys buy lowering shackles and some guys flip the axle,are these both correct or is one way better than the other?

secondly,i assume this swap works in reverse?i have a van i want to raise for tire clearance and this month i will be gettin a /6 truck i want lower so would this be a feasable crossover weekend swap in a driveway with basic tools and a pistol drill?

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: Winchester 73] #795209
02/07/13 10:59 PM
02/07/13 10:59 PM
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,064
Iowa
76dodgeboy Offline
master
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Posts: 8,064
Iowa
Quote:

so i see some guys buy lowering shackles and some guys flip the axle,are these both correct or is one way better than the other?

secondly,i assume this swap works in reverse?i have a van i want to raise for tire clearance and this month i will be gettin a /6 truck i want lower so would this be a feasable crossover weekend swap in a driveway with basic tools and a pistol drill?


A good elder is needed to weld on new spring perched and also new U-bolts and car spring plates for axle flip to lower. Not failure with vans. If the leaf is under the axle that yes you can lift it by putting the leaf on top of the axle. New perched will need welded on and you actually might be able to just swap spring plates between van and truck along as the van is indeed axle over spring as All fullsize trucks 72-93 are axle under spring. Also need to correct opinion angle

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: 76dodgeboy] #795210
02/08/13 01:02 AM
02/08/13 01:02 AM
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 168
Washington State, USA
W
Winchester 73 Offline
member
Winchester 73  Offline
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Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 168
Washington State, USA
i was going to lift the van with a stock ramcharger block in the rear and raise the front with a truck lca and lower the truck with the van lca and flip the rear axle.

but now that you mention it id still have to buy bolts for the truck so maybe the hangers is the way to go.more clearance that way as well.

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: adventurer] #2101053
06/30/16 12:07 PM
06/30/16 12:07 PM
Joined: Jun 2016
Posts: 1
Washington
D
DodgieDodger Offline
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Joined: Jun 2016
Posts: 1
Washington
I see that this is a mega old post should it still reach you but do you have more detailed pic's on how you lowered hour truck nice looking ride by the way. I'm using the same method on my D100 anymore idea's would be helpful thanks DD

Re: The weekend lowering project [Re: DodgieDodger] #2101529
07/01/16 01:17 AM
07/01/16 01:17 AM
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
adventurer Offline OP
super stock
adventurer  Offline OP
super stock

Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,093
It's beer:30 somewhere
I don't have any more pictures of the truck as a matter fact I don't even have that truck anymore but would be glad to answer any questions you have. It's really a fairly easy project, but any thing you need to know ask away. beer

On a side note I just ordered a Belltech lowering kit for my 14 Ram R/T and will be installing it right after Carlisle. I could document all the good, bad and the ugly of all of it and could share it here if anyone has any interest. dakota sawzall runaway

Last edited by adventurer; 07/01/16 08:31 AM.

77 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd SWB
78 Dodge Adventurer SE 440 2wd Utiline
90 Dodge D150 SWB 2wd 318fi 4speed
60 Desoto Adventurer 2dr
67 Dodge Dart Gt Conv. 273 4bbl
04 PT Cruiser GT Turbo
14 Ram R/T
"Life's to short to drink cheap beer."
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