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.
The leaf spring shackles are...
The leaf spring shackles are removed next with an air impact chisel.
Subframe fit check and installation...
Subframe fit check and installation are next. Depending on your Ford's chassis architecture, this can be tricky because this crossmember tends to get in the way.
The subframe is pressed into...
The subframe is pressed into place and clamped so we can drill anchor holes.
The RideTech kit includes...
The RideTech kit includes self-tapping screws, which cut threads into drilled holes. With this kit, you can bolt or you can weld. Welding provides more solid subframe installation integrity.
The trailing arms are installed...
The trailing arms are installed next as shown.
The lower arms are secured...
The lower arms are secured where our Ford's leaf springs were located, and then tied to the shock brackets at the U-bolts.
The upper trailing arms are...
The upper trailing arms are tied to the subframe...
...and to brackets welded...
...and to brackets welded to the axle tubes on top.
The adjustable Shockwave air...
The adjustable Shockwave air shocks are installed next, with attachment points at the subframe on top and shock brackets at the bottom. Ride quality and stiffness are adjusted at the bottom of shock.
Shockwaves are mounted like...
Shockwaves are mounted like this on top with a touch of white lithium grease for quiet operation.
The lower Shockwave billet...
The lower Shockwave billet mounts look like this.
Although we've already shown...
Although we've already shown you the installed air supply system, here's a look at it right out of the box from RideTech. Everything you need to get air springs and shock is here, including electronics and air hoses.
The air compressor is installed...
The air compressor is installed on rubber mounts for quiet operation, but it will make a bit of noise when it's running. Power should be switched and fused in the interest of safety and reliability.
Air hoses are secured throughout...
Air hoses are secured throughout the body and chassis with rubber lined clamps to prevent chaffing and to ensure quiet operation.
What Can RideTech Do For You?
Check out the handling and versatility of Mike O'Brien's '62 Galaxie now with the RideTech suspension underneath. You can see the before and after differences easily, as the Galaxie now turns much flatter and with more control. With a lower center of gravity, air springs, and improved suspension geometry, both ride and handling are vastly improved. And when it's time for showing and cruising, you can put this thing flat on the ground. For suspension tuning, you'll want to experiment with varying pressures. A lot will depend on your vehicle and it's weight, intended use, and driver preference.