Accepted methods of lowering a rear with leaf springs

[Corey R.]

I have a 1969 Camaro that I would like to lower in the rear. It currently has a set of multi-leaf springs in the rear. I see Hotchkis makes a lowering set of springs, but those approach $500. Another way is to install a set of blocks under the springs, but those have limitations on the amount the car can be lowered for safety reasons.

Are there other ways to lower the rear of the car? Are there cheaper leaf spring sets available? What about swapping out the endlinks?

I am guessing I could go with a set of lowering springs, and then make minor correctments with lowering blocks.


Thanks!

[72BBSwinger]

ESPO is a good leaf spring company. On a Mopar you can flip or re drill the front hanger to lower the front eye.

[Bryce]

You can also remove a leaf if you have a multi leaf spring pack. That will reduce the spring rate and will probably handle worse.

[Smoker03]

You could have your current springs de-arched. Are you just going for the look, or do you want better handling and ride characteristics?

[Corey R.]

I am looking to increase the drivers experience while also giving the car a proper stance. I have no plans to do any competitive driving. Most companies I see are offering high dollar rear suspension conversion kits. I drive 500-1000 miles a year. I have little interest is spending $3000 on my suspension.


Besides ESPO, who else makes lowered leaf springs? Does SC&C or ride tech offer a lowering spring? I don't see anything on either of their websites. I only see the high dollar stuff.

[Randy67]

The circle track suppliers offer leaf springs that will fit your car. You will need to decide what rate and arch to get as most of their stuff is aimed at going in circles. Here is some examples: http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Circle-Track-Racing-Leaf-Springs.html?attribute_value_string|Part=Leaf+Spri ng
Note they sell the springs each, not in pairs. I believe they list two arches, 6.5" (which is stock arch if I remember right) and 5" arch which should lower your car some. But it will vary how much is lowers depending on how much your current springs have sagged. They do list measurements so you can check them vs your springs to make sure you get the right size.

[Corey R.]

The circle track suppliers offer leaf springs that will fit your car. You will need to decide what rate and arch to get as most of their stuff is aimed at going in circles. Here is some examples: http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Circle-Track-Racing-Leaf-Springs.html?attribute_value_string|Part=Leaf+Spri ng
Note they sell the springs each, not in pairs. I believe they list two arches, 6.5" (which is stock arch if I remember right) and 5" arch which should lower your car some. But it will vary how much is lowers depending on how much your current springs have sagged. They do list measurements so you can check them vs your springs to make sure you get the right size.

I bookmarked the link, thank you. I will have to pull out my "How to make your Muscle Car Handle" book and brush up on the effects of various spring rates.

[Smoker03]

The hotchkis setup may be the best bang for the buck. It handles well, rides well and will give you a good stance. You dont have to go with full control arms up front, maybe just the goldstrand mod and, the front and rear springs and a descent set of shocks. Throw in some new bushings and a hotchkis sway bar, and I think it will be what you want.

Also check the for sale section here as many people are constantly upgrading and you will see many parts for a good deal.