Rear suspension in '69 'Bird

[Dantigan]

I am beginning my build on my '69 Firebird (build thread to come soon). I have some custom fabrication I am getting the work farmed out on now. As soon as I have the fab work done I will begin doing my suspension. From my many hours of research and forum browsing I have seen a huge amount of people love the DSE quadralink. I am not opposed to the DSE but plan to replace my my entire rear end. With the cost involved with upgrading to a 9inch or 12 bolt it brings my total cost involved on the DSE to near the cost of installing a Heidts bolt in IRS. The DSE would still be about $1000 to 1500 cheaper after brake additions. I have been unable to find anyone actually talking about the Heidts IRS. The impression I get of most forum members is that they don't like Heidts. Their IRS system is fairly new and I'm sure someone has to have installed it. I can talk to their company but I feel their opinion is a little biased.


I know the biggest question most people have is what is my intended use. I do not plan to do much as far as "competition" driving. But I do want a car with excellent handling and a very smooth ride. I have access to a private road course and teach an advanced driving class twice a year. I love to take my car out and play on it when I can. I plan to drop in an LS motor that is somewhere around the 600 hp range. I dont plan to drag race but would love to still be able to have a very respectable quarter time.



I know a full frame IRS kit that the Road Shop offers would be the ideal way to go but that system is pretty far out of what I am willing to pay. I am pretty much sold on the Heidts but would like to hear from anyone that has actually installed one in a 1st gen or at least driven one. If the ride quality on the IRS is noticeably better I would prefer to go that route.

Any input is greatly appreciated. Thanks