'55 Chevy multi-link rear suspension??

[vette427-sbc]

Toying at the idea of getting rid of the leaf springs on my dads '55... Any recommendations on a rear suspension? 4 link? 3 link? The biggest issue is the ride height. The car is currently lowered ~5" in the rear so whatever kit we use has to be able to clear everything at that low ride height. I dont think a panhard or watts link would work since the rear (12 Bolt) is tucked way up with the gas tank pretty close. The Ride Tech kit looks nice. Any other options? Im trying to get this car to handle as well as I can while keeping the stock frame.

[71RS/SS396]

Toying at the idea of getting rid of the leaf springs on my dads '55... Any recommendations on a rear suspension? 4 link? 3 link? The biggest issue is the ride height. The car is currently lowered ~5" in the rear so whatever kit we use has to be able to clear everything at that low ride height. I dont think a panhard or watts link would work since the rear (12 Bolt) is tucked way up with the gas tank pretty close. The Ride Tech kit looks nice. Any other options? Im trying to get this car to handle as well as I can while keeping the stock frame.

I've never used either but Heidts has an IRS and a 4 link, for tri fives

[Josh@Ridetech]

Toying at the idea of getting rid of the leaf springs on my dads '55... Any recommendations on a rear suspension? 4 link? 3 link? The biggest issue is the ride height. The car is currently lowered ~5" in the rear so whatever kit we use has to be able to clear everything at that low ride height. I dont think a panhard or watts link would work since the rear (12 Bolt) is tucked way up with the gas tank pretty close. The Ride Tech kit looks nice. Any other options? Im trying to get this car to handle as well as I can while keeping the stock frame.

You'd be extremely happy with the ridetech bolt in 4-link, it installs onto the oem leafspring mounts. The only welding that it requires is putting the four tabs on the axle for the upper bars, other than that, no fabrication is required. The system creates a non flexing, stable ride, making cornering/handling much better.

[Corinthian]

I have the Jim Meyer weld in four link, ford 9 and a rock river gas tank. It handles well, but it's still a 4 link. I think there are probably much better options out there, not sure if I'd go same route now. I bought the kit back in 2006 I think.

I also have their bolt in IFS and it's pretty good.

http://www.jimmeyerracing.com/New_Tri_5_Only.html

[cornfedbill]

Have you considered a torque arm rear suspension? It sits very low and would not interfere with the floorpan with the low ride height you have. That is my first choice for my '55.

The biggest issue I see is whether to use the real estate needed for a Watts link or the more simple panhard bar.