Rear suspension questions

[Spray-Bomb]

Hey guys, I recently picked up a disc rear out of a Caddy & it has mounts for a triangulated 4 link cast onto it

My question is, would I be better off building new arms for the rear axle & make mounting points on my frame to use the 4 link
Or, just unbolt the disc brakes & weld on some trailing arm perches on a 73 rear I have ???

I know the 4 link is a lot more work, but would there be any real advantage by using it ???
The truck is bagged & will have a 3" or 4" notch (at least to start with)

the other thing is, if I use the 4 link set up do I need to build the links the same length as what was under the caddy, or can I make them longer ???

Thanks, Matt

[SCOTI]

GM's converging 4-link suspensions in stock form were notorious for binding. Aftermarket set-ups utilize different dimensions that possibly eliminate most of it. I know I use the Currie style johnny-joints on the end links of the arms on g-bodys (late model Malibus) to minimize binding.

I would stick w/the truck arm set-up & swap the disc hardware over. My guess would be the truck pumpkin will be stronger than the caddy & the truck arm is a proven performer that's simple & won't require all the extra fab work for unknown gains.

[SanitysBane]

I agree with Scoti, the factory 4-link suspensions on the G-bodies are known for binding up big time. Keep it simple, unbolt the backing plates, but them on your rear end and use the truck arms, they are a proven winner time after time.

[Spray-Bomb]

Thanks guys, lot less work anyway

I dunno bout the caddy rear being weaker tho, this think had a TH-400 & a 500ci

[panhandler62]

I'm going to pin my question to the end of this since it's related..

I plan to have a static suspension but am still considering using bags in the back (would use a tire stem type valve, just like old-school air shocks) instead of springs. Is this rational or am I loosing my mind?

[SCOTI]

Originally Posted by panhandler62

I'm going to pin my question to the end of this since it's related..

I plan to have a static suspension but am still considering using bags in the back (would use a tire stem type valve, just like old-school air shocks) instead of springs. Is this rational or am I loosing my mind?

No problem @ all. It's not the most convenient if you adjust the ride height constantly, but it will work fine.

[Spray-Bomb]

Thats no problem

I have schrader valves on my truck currently, as I dont have a tank, compressor, or electric valves on it yet
Just make sure you dont have any leaks & you should be good... It would be rather funny having a static drop that had a mind of its own

[RunninLo]

hey Pan, a great add to your idea is one of those cigarette lighter type small compressors. We used to do it like that back in the day. Used to roll into a show and lay out and then take forever to air back up for the cruise home. Great cheap way. Nice to have in case you're ever spontaneously loading up with weight unexpectedly ( great swap meet find , etc...)and need to add a few pounds

Josh