Leaf springs or 4 link?

[PDW HOTRODS]

I know this could go in the suspension catagory, but this is 53 specific. I have a 53 1/2 ton short bed that will be a daily driver. It has a 78 malibu front end, but i am leaning toward leaf spring rear. Right now it has the stock rear leafs ,-2 , with a 10 bolt. I have not driven this yet. This set up wasn't going to stay, just untill I decide what to use. The new leaf setup looks cheapr than 4 link, so that looks good, but would the 4 link be much better. I won't be hauling a lot, but will sometimes. Also might occasionaly tow a trailer. Thanks.

[OrrieG]

I think the big difference is the 4 link moves the suspension inside the frame allowing for larger tires and tubs. Some are also set up so you can adjust the pinion angle. They are also used when adjustment in the ride height is desired using coil over shocks or bags.

You can move the leaf springs to under the frame or inside to get tire clearance but with springs the ride height is static unless you use supplemental bags, air shocks or adjustable coilovers.

[PDW HOTRODS]

I know the 4 link is adjustable, but I don't think I will need to change the ride hight once it is where I want it. I have never driven one with 4 link, so I don't know how the ride and handling are different compaired to leaf springs. Is it worth the extra money?

[nebdrummer]

Well, in my opinion, coilovers are best suited for serious street use/laying frame/racing, otherwise money is best spent elsewhere. if your making a nice cruiser that you already have the ride height that you want, then you should just stick with a leaf setup. if its too rough, take a leaf out and add a block to gain you the dropped height.

4 link's are made for a more sturdy rear end and thats about it. less axle wrap, better geometry, and the adjustability to suit the needs.

if your wanting something more than a cruiser, then it might not hurt to look into buying/building yourself a 4 link setup.

i currently have the stock leafs in the back of my truck and it rides great. front suspension is a 77 elcamino that DID have a whole stock rebuilt front end. and i loved the way it rode. i just wanted to go lower, so QA1's and 2" drop spindles in the front, and the 4 link and a small c notch in the rear.

[solidaxel]

If your are not hauling heavy loads just use the leaf springs.
I removed 3 leafs added a rear sway bar and Bilstine shocks all the way around and I love the ride.
The problem I have is axle wrap from a stand still with a hard start with 255 tires on the rear, so we don't do that anymore !!!

[weldvair@embarqmail.]

Over the years I have built trucks with leaf springs, coil overs, coils & IRS.
I personally prefer leaf springs.

They are simple to install, strong & give a good ride.

People think that coil overs give the best ride...wrong. The ride is directly proportionally to the springs ability to store energy, Thus coil overs are at the bottom(less steel wire) & torsion bars are at the top. Leaf spring are in the middle.

Don -Mech Engr

PS-if you are interested in a good junk yard spring, I'll att. pix of my current trk's(48 GMC) suspension.

[MrTucker]

For what it's worth, all new trucks use leaf springs for the rear. Cant think of one that doesn't...