83 Stepside

[ndametz32]

Ok I have an 83 Silverado Stepside, and I want to drag rockers. But I really don't know what all I need to do and what I need to buy, and also how I need to set everything up. So if anyone could tell me what all I need and a good way to set it up that would be great! Also I'm kind of on a budget, I'm 17 years old and I only have a part time job right now. I would like to eventually put a Porterbuilt dropmember up-front but it's out of the budget right now. Thanks in advance for the help!

[Wild83C10]

Search!!!

[ndametz32]

I have searched.. believe me. What I really need to know is how to set everything up. I know I want to bag it but I don't know everything I would need to bag it or how to set it up

[PBFAB.COM]

First thing I would recommend is putting together a plan. Figure out EXACTLY how you want the end result to be. Then start putting together a parts list of all the components you will need to accomplish that end result. Prioritize the parts in an order where you can build the truck in stages as funds allow. If you do this, you will be able to finish your truck without wasting any time or money. It may take longer to do it this way, but will be worth it in the end.

Start with drop spindles and bags up front. You will need to either Z the frame or run a Dropmember to lay out. The rear will need to be notched and some type of link suspension installed. Then you will need air management to get you up and down. There's lots of different options, so do your research before you spend any money... that way you won't waste any!

[Wild83C10]

Agree with Porterbuilt 100%. Research and do it in stages. To do it correctly can't be done on the cheap.

[ndametz32]

Thanks guys! That definately helps! Sorry for all the questions, this is my first time doing anything like this. But I'm wondering how you Z the frame. Is there anywhere you can direct me to that has instructions on how to do it and what not?

[N2TRUX]

If you loook through the many posts on this forum you will find some very informative answers.

We don't mind helping, but you need to do the research for yourself to get a better understanding of what it takes.

[ndametz32]

After reading the horror stories I've decided I'll save up and go with a Dropmember rather than Z'ing the frame.

[Wild83C10]

Originally Posted by ndametz32

After reading the horror stories I've decided I'll save up and go with a Dropmember rather than Z'ing the frame.

Good choice. I've spent some decent money on lowering parts for my truck and just haven't been happy with the way it rides, handles and the way the parts fit together. That is why I have decided to finally stop wasting money on stuff that just wont work well together and spend the money on the C4 DM.

[Inverter]

You will be happier w/the Dropmember,and no need to upgrade down the road.
Also,its important to prioritize,as Nathan said,so you dont end up w/a spare bedroom full of parts that you wont need for 2 more years.

[ndametz32]

Originally Posted by Inverter

You will be happier w/the Dropmember,and no need to upgrade down the road.
Also,its important to prioritize,as Nathan said,so you dont end up w/a spare bedroom full of parts that you wont need for 2 more years.

Yeah, exactly. That's why I'm doing so much research and asking questions. I'd rather look dumb by asking questions, than look dumb by doing something wrong.

But I still don't know if I need to get drop spindles since I'm gonna get a drop member.. Would I just need the drop member and bags up front?

[ndametz32]

Is it neccesarry for me to get drop spindles if I'm going to run a drop member? Or will I just need the Dropmember and bags up front?