Tech | Suspension Upgrade
Last month, we introduced you to the Level 1 air ride system from RideTech, installing the front suspension system on a '62 Ford Galaxie convertible. We fitted our frontend with air springs, relocated shock absorbers, and installed the air supply system.
Air bag suspensions can greatly improve ride quality and handling over the factory components, and they allow you to position and show the car anyway you'd like. They are available for just about every Ford, Mercury, or Lincoln imaginable from compact all the way up to fullsize, including trucks.
This is the Level 1 ABAR20400...
This is the Level 1 ABAR20400 rear suspension AirBar package for '60-'64 fullsize Fords and Mercurys. Not pictured here are the SKW5001SA air spring/shock units that are a part of the system - they were unavailable to us at the time this photo was taken. RideTech includes everything that is necessary to get the job done in the ABA20400 rear suspension kit.
RideTech has really set the standard when it comes to installing air suspensions in vintage cars, and the company's tuneable suspensions allow vehicle owners to dial in ride quality, height, and firmness all from the comfort of the driver seat.
This month, we are installing the rear suspension system, and will cover tuning the ride quality and handling. For this, we turned to Mike O'Brien at Mustangs Etc. in Van Nuys, California, who has a lot of experience building street rods and customs. Once the suspension components are bolted in, ride tuning boils down to what you do with switches and air pressure. Lets get started.
Here's what we're starting...
Here's what we're starting with. A conventional Ford leaf spring suspension with a 9-inch live axle. We're going to eliminate the leaves and go with a four-link system with adjustable Shockwaves.
The rear axle is supported...
The rear axle is supported before work begins. This enables us to raise and lower the rear axle as work is accomplished.
Shock absorbers are removed...
Shock absorbers are removed next using 9/16-inch deep socket on the bottom stud, and a 3/4-inch socket on top. If the shock proves stubborn, apply or remove axle jack support to free the shock.
With the axle properly supported,...
With the axle properly supported, the leaf spring shackles are disconnected using a 9/16-inch socket. Some WD-40 helps before removal.
The leaf bushing bolts are...
The leaf bushing bolts are next,...
again using WD-40 beforehand...
again using WD-40 beforehand to loosen things up.
The leaf spring shock brackets...
The leaf spring shock brackets are removed next using a 5/8-inch deep socket. Make sure the axle is properly supported.
Framerail contact surfaces...
Framerail contact surfaces must be cleaned up as shown for a smooth marriage with the subframe assembly.
The exhaust system has to...
The exhaust system has to be removed for easier access. This is the best time for a new exhaust system, which should be installed after the RideTech system is in place for reasons of proper fitment.