How low is too low? (Static Drop) - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

BlueEK9 · 06-21-2012, 01:28 PM

I recently did a 5.5" static drop on the front of my 67. I used CPP 2.5" spindles, 3" DJM springs, Porterbuilt shock relocators and 235/60/15 tires up front. My control arms are aproximately 2" off the ground. I had to trim them a little to accommodate the 15" rims and CPP drop spindles. I love the way it looks but I am constantly bottoming out. Should be concerned about damaging my control arms or some other suspension components? The sway bar brackets on the control arms are only an 1.5" away from hitting the upper spring cups.

Posted via Mobile Device

Cole Trickle · 06-21-2012, 01:45 PM

Too low for me with that wheel/tire package.

Looks really good but I would be afraid I would destroy the truck on every bump/driveway or rail road track.

With my 4.5" front drop and 20" wheels I never rub and my x member is nowhere near that close to the ground.

you can buy shorter/low profile sway bar frame mounts

leftcoast66 · 06-21-2012, 01:49 PM

It shouldn't be an issue, but it all depends on your driving style. Watch for bumps and avoid them, go slowly when needed, and you'll be ok.

Cole Trickle · 06-21-2012, 02:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by leftcoast66

It shouldn't be an issue, but it all depends on your driving style. Watch for bumps and avoid them, go slowly when needed, and you'll be ok.

lol.... he lives in WA and is parked on gravel

KQQL IT · 06-21-2012, 02:19 PM

Buy some control arms as spares and enjoy it.
Posted via Mobile Device
Posted via Mobile Device

BlueEK9 · 06-21-2012, 02:30 PM

Cole, what size tires are you running up front with your 20's? I have a set that I'm getting ready to buy tires for.
Posted via Mobile Device

Cole Trickle · 06-21-2012, 03:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BlueEK9

Cole, what size tires are you running up front with your 20's? I have a set that I'm getting ready to buy tires for.
Posted via Mobile Device

20x8.5 255/40/20 (F)

20x10 295/40/20 (R)

1971_402 · 06-21-2012, 04:22 PM

WOW.. I got CPP 3in drop springs on mine and it no ware near that drop.. And mine still have the Factory bump stops just without the rubber stop. What Brand are those just for curiosity sake.

BlueEK9 · 06-21-2012, 05:38 PM

3" DJM springs, CPP 2.5" drop spindles and 26" tall tires.
Posted via Mobile Device

502ms · 06-21-2012, 06:36 PM

I agree with the comments above re: drive it, enjoy it.
I ride lower than that daily.
Posted via Mobile Device

**lolife99** · 06-21-2012, 07:08 PM

Your truck looks Sweet!

Adding a Porterbuilt Mild Dropmember or Pro Touring Dropmember will give you more ground clearance, at the same ride height.

shawno72 · 06-21-2012, 08:17 PM

I like it!!
Posted via Mobile Device

Gus350 · 06-21-2012, 09:12 PM

Would just adding porter built control arms with stock cross member give it anymore ground clearance.
Posted via Mobile Device

Narxoleptic Customs · 06-21-2012, 10:44 PM

Screw it, drive the crap out of it. Ull be okay.
Posted via Mobile Device

jwalk · 06-22-2012, 12:51 AM

Your truck looks good! I like how it sits!
Posted via Mobile Device

gringoloco · 06-22-2012, 12:58 AM

Tube arms and a taller tire- or do the PBDM, if you have the $. Truck looks sweet, but if you catch one of those arms on something, you might/will destroy it. I've seen frames folded like origami...
Posted via Mobile Device

cory d · 06-22-2012, 01:30 AM

the truck looks great. i think it might really help if you baged the front, you look like you would sheve the heads of the bolts on I5

BlueEK9 · 06-22-2012, 02:06 AM

I appreciate all the feedback. Is anyone else running the same/similar set up? I'll most likely just leave it the way it is and take it easy. Porterbuilt stuff is great but I don't want to invest that much money into this truck. I'm also working on a short box that already has a complete Porterbuilt setup.
Posted via Mobile Device

**lolife99** · 06-22-2012, 07:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gus350

Would just adding porter built control arms with stock cross member give it anymore ground clearance.

Not really.
The "pivot point" of the lower a-arm is still the closest thing to the ground.
It will make contact first.

**lolife99** · 06-22-2012, 07:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BlueEK9

I appreciate all the feedback. Is anyone else running the same/similar set up? I'll most likely just leave it the way it is and take it easy. Porterbuilt stuff is great but I don't want to invest that much money into this truck. I'm also working on a short box that already has a complete Porterbuilt setup.

I am.
My red '69 has a 5.5/7.5 drop.
My a-arms are 2.5" off the ground at the lowest spot on the lower a-arms.
(I have a 7" wheel with a 215/70-15 tire)

Swapping the front coils would be the easiest answer,... but then you won't be "driving" at this low height anymore.

**N2TRUX** · 06-22-2012, 10:13 AM

If it were me, I would try changing to a different coil. I have never had good luck with 3" coils. I would go with a stock coil cut, or a 2" drop instead.

gringoloco · 06-22-2012, 11:15 AM

Mine is a similar drop (3" spindles, 1" coils with a round cut), but I'm running a 28" tall tire to keep the arms up off of the ground and I still would like some more clearance. Seeing the devastation that is caused by hanging an arm, even at low speed, worries me...
Posted via Mobile Device

Tinkermc · 06-22-2012, 12:08 PM

where I live with pot holes and rough pavement I could not do that I might go 16" tires or just taller tires and enjoy it and DRIVE IT LIKE YOU STOLE IT!!!!!!

INSIDIOUS '86 · 06-22-2012, 07:10 PM

Take the springs out and get some 3/4 ton or one ton springs cut for the same drop stiffer springs will keep the front from dropping so low when you hit a Gregoire hole

a_barth · 06-25-2012, 03:35 PM

How about sectioning the cross member? You could section it 1"-1.5" and buy 1.5"-2" drop springs. This would put you at the same ride height but raise the center of the crossmember and your control arm pivots at least an inch. Just pick up a spare crossmember, section it and swap it out. The truck SHOULD only be down for a few hours barring any unforseen issues.

06-21-2012, 01:28 PM	#1
BlueEK9 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: Tacoma Posts: 134	How low is too low? (Static Drop) I recently did a 5.5" static drop on the front of my 67. I used CPP 2.5" spindles, 3" DJM springs, Porterbuilt shock relocators and 235/60/15 tires up front. My control arms are aproximately 2" off the ground. I had to trim them a little to accommodate the 15" rims and CPP drop spindles. I love the way it looks but I am constantly bottoming out. Should be concerned about damaging my control arms or some other suspension components? The sway bar brackets on the control arms are only an 1.5" away from hitting the upper spring cups. Posted via Mobile Device __________________ If you are on Facebook check out our group. northwestc10s@groups.facebook.com Chris Fowler

06-21-2012, 01:45 PM	#2
Cole Trickle C-10 Club Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Corona,CA Posts: 1,001	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) Too low for me with that wheel/tire package. Looks really good but I would be afraid I would destroy the truck on every bump/driveway or rail road track. With my 4.5" front drop and 20" wheels I never rub and my x member is nowhere near that close to the ground. you can buy shorter/low profile sway bar frame mounts __________________ 1969 Short Fleet 350/SM465 4.5/6.5 ECE drop 20" Raceline Wheels 1998 2dr Tahoe 5/7 drop 20"/22" Coys-sold Build thread...http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=401910

06-21-2012, 01:49 PM	#3
leftcoast66 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Covington, WA Posts: 770	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) It shouldn't be an issue, but it all depends on your driving style. Watch for bumps and avoid them, go slowly when needed, and you'll be ok.

06-21-2012, 02:19 PM	#5
KQQL IT At the body shop. Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Land of fruits and nuts. Posts: 5,257	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) Buy some control arms as spares and enjoy it. Posted via Mobile Device Posted via Mobile Device __________________ " That didnt make it any newer " " Dont antique the equipment "

06-21-2012, 02:30 PM	#6
BlueEK9 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: Tacoma Posts: 134	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) Cole, what size tires are you running up front with your 20's? I have a set that I'm getting ready to buy tires for. Posted via Mobile Device __________________ If you are on Facebook check out our group. northwestc10s@groups.facebook.com Chris Fowler

06-21-2012, 04:22 PM	#8
1971_402 Registered User Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Kalifonia Posts: 265	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) WOW.. I got CPP 3in drop springs on mine and it no ware near that drop.. And mine still have the Factory bump stops just without the rubber stop. What Brand are those just for curiosity sake. __________________ 1969 Chevy C10 Shortbox SB/TH350(SOLD) 1971 GMC Sierra Grande BBC(SOLD) 1972 Chevy C20 Longbed SBC/4Speed(Sold) 1972 Chevy C10 LWB-SWB/Bagged(ALMOST) 1972 Chevy C10 Shortened/SBC(DONE) 1981 Chevy C10 SWB 383/TH350(SOLD)

06-21-2012, 05:38 PM	#9
BlueEK9 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: Tacoma Posts: 134	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) 3" DJM springs, CPP 2.5" drop spindles and 26" tall tires. Posted via Mobile Device __________________ If you are on Facebook check out our group. northwestc10s@groups.facebook.com Chris Fowler

06-21-2012, 06:36 PM	#10
502ms Registered User Join Date: Aug 2011 Location: Atlanta, GA Posts: 1,523	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) I agree with the comments above re: drive it, enjoy it. I ride lower than that daily. Posted via Mobile Device __________________ Best Regards, Leon M. Instagram: @TheDirtyDianah Bagged \| 6.0L LS \| T-56 (6-Speed Manual) \| Turbo Burnout/Rolling Video: Chevy C10 Stepside 6.0L LSx & 6-Speed Manual

06-21-2012, 07:08 PM	#11
lolife99 67-72 parts collector,… Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Mid-MO Posts: 22,700	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) Your truck looks Sweet! Adding a Porterbuilt Mild Dropmember or Pro Touring Dropmember will give you more ground clearance, at the same ride height. __________________ Keith Convert to disc brakes. http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=444823

06-21-2012, 08:17 PM	#12
shawno72 C/10 junkie Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: Stockton Ca Posts: 9,093	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) I like it!! Posted via Mobile Device __________________ Shawn 70 LWB C10 current driver/project http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=663051 68 SWB C10 Work in progress.....SOLD http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=559520 72 LWB C10 Sold 71 LWB C10 Sold 68 LWB C10 CST Sold http://youtu.be/kbB0QrBIs9k My mom always had the best advice. It was just a tad late. After a fall that involved blood, she'd say....."Careful!"

06-21-2012, 09:12 PM	#13
Gus350 68 C 10 Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Advance ,Mo Posts: 554	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) Would just adding porter built control arms with stock cross member give it anymore ground clearance. Posted via Mobile Device __________________ Kevin "Life is Hard But its Harder when your Stupid" John Wayne 68 C10 70 C20 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s....php?t=602326#

06-21-2012, 10:44 PM	#14
Narxoleptic Customs Registered User Join Date: Dec 2011 Location: Blytheville/Bentonville, AR Posts: 393	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) Screw it, drive the crap out of it. Ull be okay. Posted via Mobile Device

06-22-2012, 12:51 AM	#15
jwalk What was I thinking? Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: oklahoma Posts: 1,137	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) Your truck looks good! I like how it sits! Posted via Mobile Device __________________ Justin '68 C/10 Custom Long wide bed '78 GMC Sierra short wide Project: Second time around...'68 short wide http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=423949

06-22-2012, 12:58 AM	#16
gringoloco A guy with a truck Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Germany, for now Posts: 5,921	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) Tube arms and a taller tire- or do the PBDM, if you have the $. Truck looks sweet, but if you catch one of those arms on something, you might/will destroy it. I've seen frames folded like origami... Posted via Mobile Device __________________ -Chris Instagram _elgringoloco_ '70 Short-Wide How to: Ruin a perfectly good C10 ‘70 Blazer ConversionHow To: Ruin a Perfectly Good 4wd '72 Highlander How To: Ruin a Perfectly Good K/5 (SOLD) '72 Blazer 2WD How to: Ruin a perfectly good Blazer (SOLD) '05 Yukon Daily Driven (not so stock) Yukon (SOLD) ‘07 Yukon Denali (daily) Members met list: SCOTI, darkhorse970, 67cheby, 67cheby'sGirl, klmore, porterbuilt, n2billet, Fastrucken, classicchev, Col Clank, GSFMECH, HuggerCST, Spray-Bomb, BACKYARD88, 5150, fine69, fatbass, smbrouss70, 65StreetCruiser, GAc10boy

06-22-2012, 01:30 AM	#17
cory d Registered User Join Date: Dec 2011 Location: Arlington WA Posts: 1,728	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) the truck looks great. i think it might really help if you baged the front, you look like you would sheve the heads of the bolts on I5 __________________ GMC C15 355 SM465 3.73 80 C10 cruiser build thread 79 short stepside crew cab. big and ugly. build thread



Register or Log In To remove these advertisements.

06-22-2012, 02:06 AM	#18
BlueEK9 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: Tacoma Posts: 134	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) I appreciate all the feedback. Is anyone else running the same/similar set up? I'll most likely just leave it the way it is and take it easy. Porterbuilt stuff is great but I don't want to invest that much money into this truck. I'm also working on a short box that already has a complete Porterbuilt setup. Posted via Mobile Device __________________ If you are on Facebook check out our group. northwestc10s@groups.facebook.com Chris Fowler

06-22-2012, 10:13 AM	#21
N2TRUX Happy to be here Join Date: Mar 2000 Location: Cypress, TX Posts: 39,021	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) If it were me, I would try changing to a different coil. I have never had good luck with 3" coils. I would go with a stock coil cut, or a 2" drop instead. __________________ Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @N2trux.com Articles- "Jake" the 84 to 74 crewcab "Elwood" the77_Remix 85 GMC Sierra "Scarlett" "Refining Sierra"

06-22-2012, 11:15 AM	#22
gringoloco A guy with a truck Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Germany, for now Posts: 5,921	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) Mine is a similar drop (3" spindles, 1" coils with a round cut), but I'm running a 28" tall tire to keep the arms up off of the ground and I still would like some more clearance. Seeing the devastation that is caused by hanging an arm, even at low speed, worries me... Posted via Mobile Device __________________ -Chris Instagram _elgringoloco_ '70 Short-Wide How to: Ruin a perfectly good C10 ‘70 Blazer ConversionHow To: Ruin a Perfectly Good 4wd '72 Highlander How To: Ruin a Perfectly Good K/5 (SOLD) '72 Blazer 2WD How to: Ruin a perfectly good Blazer (SOLD) '05 Yukon Daily Driven (not so stock) Yukon (SOLD) ‘07 Yukon Denali (daily) Members met list: SCOTI, darkhorse970, 67cheby, 67cheby'sGirl, klmore, porterbuilt, n2billet, Fastrucken, classicchev, Col Clank, GSFMECH, HuggerCST, Spray-Bomb, BACKYARD88, 5150, fine69, fatbass, smbrouss70, 65StreetCruiser, GAc10boy

06-22-2012, 12:08 PM	#23
Tinkermc Registered User Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Farmville, Va Posts: 3,026	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) where I live with pot holes and rough pavement I could not do that I might go 16" tires or just taller tires and enjoy it and DRIVE IT LIKE YOU STOLE IT!!!!!!

06-22-2012, 07:10 PM	#24
INSIDIOUS '86 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: washington Posts: 4,178	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) Take the springs out and get some 3/4 ton or one ton springs cut for the same drop stiffer springs will keep the front from dropping so low when you hit a Gregoire hole __________________ 377 sbc thumpr cam autogear m23 muncie 3:73 Detroit trutrac 3''spintech prostreet mufflers xpipe 1 3/4 headers build thread !http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=577217 Iroc gauge threadhttp://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=554511

06-25-2012, 03:35 PM	#25
a_barth Registered User Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Eustis, FL Posts: 124	Re: How low is too low? (Static Drop) How about sectioning the cross member? You could section it 1"-1.5" and buy 1.5"-2" drop springs. This would put you at the same ride height but raise the center of the crossmember and your control arm pivots at least an inch. Just pick up a spare crossmember, section it and swap it out. The truck SHOULD only be down for a few hours barring any unforseen issues.

Register or Log In To remove these advertisements.