Suspension pro's- need help
 

Hey guys, I'm considering upgrading the entire suspension on my 01', here's the problem- I don't know where to start, with the options available I don't know what works with what, but this is what I'm trying to accomplish a 2/3 drop, better brakes, QA1's on all 4 corners and a set of 18 or 20 inch HRE's. I might make it to the track ( strip ) 3 times a year as for road racing it's not in the cards today. I want a nice raked stance, similar to stock, improved all around suspension performance and most important -dependability. Also does upgrading to a larger wheel affect performance in a negative or positive way, other than lowering my rear end ratio. Thanks for your time, Todd

you could get strange engineering Race shocks for $120 pair... Much cheaper than the qa1's, and built bullet proof.

They are fully adjustable race shocks.

First you need to decide what you plan on doing with the truck and what type of ride you want.IF you want a stock ride then stay with reg lowering kits.But if you are looking for more performance handling then look at the manufactures that are known for that type of suspension.sTan

thanks stan
 

Stan, I would like to increase my performance pretty much across the board- braking, handling, appearance with and emphsis on dependablity. The truck is street driven mostly, dry wheather only, winter stored. I don't want to go hacking up my ride, just replace existing parts and build a nice balanced package. I checked out your site and have an idea on the parts needed but would really like your input to get it right the first time. My email is toddabb@aol.com if you could get in contact me to point me in the right direction that would be a big help, or if it's OK post it here. Thanks again, Todd

hey stan and ruslow... I have upgrade 01+ bilsteins that I just bought and 2" drop shackles in the rear... would I be alright just adding springs up front... what options to I have in good springs

i would say to the both of you to upgrade to a stiffer front spring from one of the vendors that specializes in performance.I do know that if you do increase the front spring rate that you will be harder to get good 60' times.Bilstiens will work form rate up to 850 then after that they wear out very quickly.If you choose aftermarket there are valving rates to consider with 60/40,40/60 for the front and a 50/50 rear and or front to.IF the manufacture can not give you the rate more than likely they are being out sourced and you can find them cheaper if you do some digging.
Also remember that you need to slow down once you get to that speed.so min would be a pad upgrade.Stan

The Hotchkis kit is a good compramise between corner carver and lowered for looks. Nice stance and big improvement over stock. Check my gallery for pics of that and also Stop-Tech brakes.