47-55.1 Lowering the S10 (spindles vs. springs)

[DanJC]

Been studying all the excellent posts on S10 frame swaps. I see that most everyone uses dropped spindles to lower the front rather than lowering springs, is there a reason for this? The springs are a little more budget friendly is the reason I am curious??
Thanks-

[joedoh]

spindles do not change the suspension geometry to lower the truck, they only move the spindle hub up 2" (which lowers the ride height 2"). everything is at the same angle as it was before installing the spindles, and shock travel is unchanged.

springs let the suspension "droop" 2" (or 3", depending on what you get). the balljoints are at a new angle, so are the tie rods, so are the control arms and control arm bushings, the shocks are compressed 2" more than they were.

I have used both, thats the difference.

[DanJC]

makes sense, thank you
I think I will save for the spindles...

[davecarney2]

Being a "mini trucker" in my younger years I have cut springs, had lowering springs, and had spindles in different S-10s. Spindles are the way to go if you have the means. You will get better ride quality and handling. Keep an eye out on some of the s-10 forums theres usually someone that has a set for sale. Keep in mind that a G-body car has the same spindles as well so some years el-Camino, Monte etc... will also be the same. Lowering springs will be bouncy but not as bouncy as heating the springs or cutting them down. Spent a lot of years on s shoestring budget and cut my fair share of coil springs. I would never recommend heating the springs. Just some thoughts on a few different options.

[mr48chev]

The only issue with dropped spindles is that you can have a scrub line issue with some wheels. With all the lowered Hondas running around the law doesn't pay much attention to a truck that is a little bit low anymore and if you are running larger rims it probably is not an issue at all. As I was told by a patrolman here, I don't care how low it is as long as it doesn't get hung up on the pavement if it has a flat tire (s) so I can push it off the road. Meaning no chassis parts hitting the pavement if you have four flat tires.

I've done it a bunch but cut coils do mess seriously with the front end geometry and somewhat with the ride.

[joedoh]

to mr 48s point, even 14" wheels (the smallest that fit over s10 brakes) dont violate scrub on an s10 with spindles, but a valid concern for other trucks.

[DanJC]

I do plan on running 14"s for the time being, I have some chevy ralleys that I think look kinda neat on it
thanks for all the info-