Suspension Recommendations

[skink4president]

I'm thinking about doing some suspension work on my '73 K-5 and would greatly appreciate some advice. I'd like to keep a "stock" look to the truck and possibly go to "33's (right now I'm running "32's with no problems). It's a daily driver and comfort is as much an issue as performance. I'd like to go with a full kit that lifts the truck approx. 1" to 2.5" and softens up the ride (I'd want to accomplish this with springs instead of blocks).

Any recommendations regarding brands (Rancho, Tuff-Country, etc.) and/or specific kits?

Thanks again!

 

[Corey 78K5]

You should check out the 2" lift from Tuff Country. You can get it with or with out rear springs.

 

[mini_mull]

FYI, most members are going to tell you to search, since this same basic question comes up 2-3 times a week. Most reccomend tuff country or BDS for a soft ride and flex. Unless you only drive on the street, there's a chance you could rub with 33", depending on how wide the tire is and the width of rims you use, also each rig can be a little different. Try searching and you'll find a wealth of information.

 

[jekbrown]

You should check out the 2" lift from Tuff Country. You can get it with or with out rear springs.

i concur... TCs are soft... oughta ride like a caddy.

j

 

[Jew Pimpin]

Is there really such a thing as comfortable ride? I've got the 4" rough country on mine with the rear springs and the hydro 800 shocks and it rides rough. I just thought it was cuz it was a big old truck with 4 leaf springs. Did I buy the wrong lift/ shocks? They said the springs were "luxury" ride.

 

[mini_mull]

Most people think Rough Country is just that, rough. I had a Rough Country on my K10, and it wasn't that bad, but maybe the RS9000s might have helped some. I've searched through tons of lift posts and quite a few people say their TC or BDS lifts ride better than stock.

 

[ryoken]

Rough Country is aptly named....

 

[jekbrown]

Is there really such a thing as comfortable ride? I've got the 4" rough country on mine with the rear springs and the hydro 800 shocks and it rides rough. I just thought it was cuz it was a big old truck with 4 leaf springs. Did I buy the wrong lift/ shocks? They said the springs were "luxury" ride.

yeah, i dont think RC makes a truly soft spring... TC does though.

j

 

[Jew Pimpin]

Now to call TC and see if I can get just springs, well there isn't much else. Hmm time for 6"?

 

[pvfjr]

Now to call TC and see if I can get just springs, well there isn't much else. Hmm time for 6"?

I just got mine (springs only) from 4wheelcustoms, I don't think you can buy directly from TC. They're a vendor here at ck5, and had the best price I could find. Got them REAL fast too.

 

[jp1973]

keep it simple

if your just looking for a little lift there is no need to spend 4 to 6 hundred bucks on a kit. add a leafs in the rear and shackles or add a leaf up front. this can be done for 60 to 150 buck. and add a leafs will stifin the ride a lil but still rinds nice. i did it on a 77 k5 and was real happy with it.

 

[Corey 78K5]

I just got mine (springs only) from 4wheelcustoms, I don't think you can buy directly from TC. They're a vendor here at ck5, and had the best price I could find. Got them REAL fast too.

Yes You can buy directly from TC. I did just that, If I recall the guy's name was Dan that I talked to and was cool as hell. He even tossed in a t-shirt and a couple window stickers. Now that was like 8 years ago so things might have changed.

 

[Storm Trooper]

If your not too tough on your truck like some of us,
You might want to also consider the greaseable spring bolts
from ORD. It helps keep things moving nice and not rusting up.
http://offroaddesign.com/catalog/hdshackles.htm
If you decide not to use them, use silicone dielectic grease when
you put it together.