Solid front axle AND Coil springs

[G35Vortec454]

The next step for you is to get under a late model F250/350 and take some measurements. The first that I would check is the width of the radius arms, center to center. Then you can compare it to your frame.

U hit it on the head.

It's time to hit the car lots and/or asking friends who's got a 2005-up F250/F350SD and take 'em measurements. I wonder if I could rent one from the Used Car lots for a week or 2?

Fabtech offers an 05-08 Ford 250/350 6-inch complete lift kit (including the longer radius arms) for $1800 and the 4-link version for $2200. (Looks like the 4-link version is a better system, huh?). Also, I'm sure Ford Parts sells the other needed parts on an individual basis (if I can't find any wrecking yard units, as it is very unlikely to find any); all I have to do then is to fabricate the attachments points to my un-Ford van frame.

So maybe for around $5000 for purchased parts and a $1000 Dana 60, plus fabrication, the whole thing can be done for $7-8K???

Thanks everyone.

 

[G35Vortec454]

If I went with a front Dana 60 I'd "engineer" my RV's front suspension like the 05-08 F350 front suspension with the factory radius arms. BUT . . .

After a lot of thought, I've decided to go with the IFS Independent Carrier Assembly (ICA - as it is called by GM) and use beefed up halfshafts and CV joints.

So, wish me luck . . . or say your piece now (further discourage me).

Cutting is set to begin next month!!!

 

[ujoint]

You're CRAZY!!!! I hope it works for ya, good luck.....

 

[G35Vortec454]

You're CRAZY!!!! .....

I've been called that before But it's gotta work; Quigley makes them work.

I've scored a Dana 60 and will keep it in the garage just in case during the maiden voyage with the front IFS differential and the pumpkin blows up . . .

 

[ujoint]

Sounds like you already know the IFS is gonna grenade!! If you already have the 60, why not just install it instead? I'd love to able say I told ya so, but I don't want to see you built the van twice!!!

 

[G35Vortec454]

After trying to figure out where the torsion bars will hang, I'm convinced that it will REALLY compromise ground clearance.

OK, I changed my mind. I'm now going with the Ford 05-08 suspension (coil sprung / radius arms solid axle) design. (I just have an aversion for leaf springs).

Who has an F350 (2005-2008) that I can "borrow" or "rent" for a week or two so I can bring it home just for taking measurements???

 

[spencyg]

Any reason in particular you don't like leaf springs? They are so simple and effective....I REALLY like the KISS method of vehicle design and construction...

Spence

 

[G35Vortec454]

Spence, leaf springs give a harsh ride, or so I've read and heard. Fruthermore, I like Ford's newer technology/suspension.

 

[spencyg]

I think it depends on the leafs...I've been in a stock 2002 F250 Superduty with front leafs and it rode like buttah.

Spence