47-54 Trailing Arm Suspension

[robnolimit]

We have made a big change in rear suspension offerings for the 47-54 1/2T shortbed (wide chassis). We now have in production a trailing arm rear suspension package for these trucks. The wide tapered frame is a natural fit for a trailing arm suspension. These are available with Viking double adjustable coil-overs ($1175), with air ride using an 8000 series Firestone rolling sleeve bag and Nitro shocks ($1175), or as the trailing arm kit only - no shocks or bags, ($745). All kits include a new front crossmember, front trailing arm mounts, trailing arms with adjustable monster ball ends, axle saddles, U-bolts, Panhard rod and mounts and complete hardware pack. Coil-over kits add lower shock mounts and spacers, billit viking double adjustable shocks, springs, upper shock crossmember and hardware. Air bag kits add Firestone 8000 bags, upper bag mounts, upper and lower shock mounts, shocks and hardware.

[Sixshooter44]

How hard would this be to adapt to a narrow frame?

[robnolimit]

Originally Posted by Sixshooter44

How hard would this be to adapt to a narrow frame?

?? Which frame, and why?

[Sixshooter44]

I have a 55 series 1 3800 truck and would like to swap in a 12 bolt I have out of a 68. I really like the truck arm setup but I should just do a 4 link and be done with it.

[robnolimit]

Originally Posted by Sixshooter44

I have a 55 series 1 3800 truck and would like to swap in a 12 bolt I have out of a 68. I really like the truck arm setup but I should just do a 4 link and be done with it.

IMHO, the narrow 34" frame of the 55 is not going to fit well with a trailing arm set up. Also, the 68 rear is a bit wider than the 55, I'd check to see the difference. I agree with you that a four-bar set up would fit and work better in this case.

[Sixshooter44]

Thanks Rob. It's great that people like you take time to help us.