Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

Hazieview · 06-03-2009, 04:44 PM

I am throwing some money in my sb400 and 350th but I need to make sure that after I can produce the power I can put it on the ground...

I'm looking for a .373 Posi and I am going to run 295 tires too. My truck has drop spindles and shackles/hangers.

So what could I do?

Ladder bars? Dont think so this is going to be a very streetable truck.

Traction bars? I heard the only time you can use these is if you have a flip kit. So should I install a flip kit?

I'm putting a fuel cell in the back and I may relocate my battery to the back.

Any suggestions on how I could Hook up any better?

Prerunner1982 · 06-03-2009, 04:51 PM

You might look at what kind/type of tires you are running.

**Captkaos** · 06-03-2009, 05:40 PM

CalTracs:
http://store.73-87chevytrucks.com/me..._Code=7387SUSP

babyJay · 06-03-2009, 05:52 PM

tub it out and shorten the axle...

Wild83C10 · 06-03-2009, 06:06 PM

Loosen up the front end. Buy some adjustable drag shocks for the front. Shift as much weight to the rear as possible.

79gmcc15 · 06-03-2009, 06:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Captkaos

CalTracs:
http://store.73-87chevytrucks.com/me..._Code=7387SUSP

how does this work? jw

Cherub · 06-03-2009, 06:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Captkaos

CalTracs:
http://store.73-87chevytrucks.com/me..._Code=7387SUSP

this is what im going

pics of the set up are in here
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...light=caltracs

dammitmitchell · 06-03-2009, 08:57 PM

i get traction in second gear =-)

*78 Chevyrado* · 06-03-2009, 09:42 PM

I get traction through low power output....lol

Hazieview · 06-04-2009, 01:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Captkaos

CalTracs:
http://store.73-87chevytrucks.com/me..._Code=7387SUSP

I too would like to know how the CalTracs would work on a truck without a flip kit....

Does anyone else have any pictures of there CalTracs on a nonflip kit setup? Or something like the CalTracs?

pokethesmot · 06-04-2009, 01:10 AM

put weight in the back

S10Fan · 06-04-2009, 05:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 78 Chevyrado

I get traction through low power output....lol

LOL, I was going to offer up my 250-6, problem solved!

swb85 · 06-04-2009, 09:38 AM

You do not need a flip kit to use traction bars (commonly referred to as slapper bars) or caltracs. They both do the same thing which is eliminate spring wrap (wheel hop). I have cheapy Lakewood traction bars on my truck (stock height) along with a locker in the rear end. If I had some better tires on there I'd probably hook pretty good, but with the BFG T/A's I can lay rubber for a city block.

If you REALLY wanna hook you need the following:
-posi rear
-TIRES (ie, drag radials)
-anti spring wrap mechanism (traction bars or caltracs)
-good adjustable shocks at all 4 corners
-move as much weight to the rear as possible

Keep your wallet handy because stuff starts breaking when you hook

thirdstreettito · 06-04-2009, 09:41 AM

The only way I have ever gotten traction is with a trailer or loaded bed.

dieseldr4 · 06-04-2009, 11:09 AM

hooking up 101...ha ha...

if you cant get enough weight to the rear, you can always fill the bottom half of the tailgate with lead, i have done 2 tailgate for local guys here in so cal. this works well and get the weight way back where you need it...lead shot or tire weights work good for this.. guess the cats outta the bag now... hope this helps...

Driveway Dreams · 06-04-2009, 11:31 AM

That seems crazy, but I guess it works huh? You just drop them all through the access spaces? How much weight you use, any idea?

dieseldr4 · 06-04-2009, 11:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Driveway Dreams

That seems crazy, but I guess it works huh? You just drop them all through the access spaces? How much weight you use, any idea?

it depends how much you need.. back in the mid-90's a guy named chuck samuels used to race n.m.c.a super street with a 65 elcamino(wicked truck that ran low 9's high 8's with wheels up launches! all that on 28x9 tires with stock suspension!), his wife used to put the tailgate up after a race, she was workin hard to lift it for sure.. i was in the staging lanes one day when they dropped it, dont know for sure how much he had in it but it sure sounded heavy.. ive done one with 75 pounds and one at a 100 pounds.. it just depends what your application needs, obviously you dont want any more than needed...you can also melt it down (wear the proper safety gear) and pour it down the tailgate handle hole... hope this helps you guys get these trucks hookin and bookin...

Driveway Dreams · 06-04-2009, 12:21 PM

Thats great! Thanks for the ideas.

team39763 · 06-05-2009, 12:24 AM

I think you'd be very happy with the Caltracs...especially once you get everything working together - weight tranfer, motor/tune, tires, shocks. I only had half a run down the track with mine(lost a ujoint and twisted the driveshaft) and I seemed to hook pretty good. I gave them a try on the street and I could feel/see the difference.

**Captkaos** · 06-05-2009, 06:04 PM

Caltracs work the same with either flipped or not. there are just 2 different brackets for the 2 versions.

Or where you wanting an explanation on how Caltracs themselves work?

AceX · 06-05-2009, 09:57 PM

Cal-tracs and a good set of tires should hold. If it doesn't there are less permanent ways to get wieght in the rear. There are "water bladders" which are bags that you fill with water. They can add up to 400lbs right above the rear end. It can then be drained for the drive home or w/e. Best solution I've found.

79gmcc15 · 06-05-2009, 10:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Captkaos

Caltracs work the same with either flipped or not. there are just 2 different brackets for the 2 versions.

Or where you wanting an explanation on how Caltracs themselves work?

for me that would be cool.

Hazieview · 06-06-2009, 12:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Captkaos

Caltracs work the same with either flipped or not. there are just 2 different brackets for the 2 versions.

Or where you wanting an explanation on how Caltracs themselves work?

Yeah I'd like to know how the cal tracs work without using a flip kit...

?

06-03-2009, 04:44 PM	#1
Hazieview Building Dreams out of Dimes! Join Date: May 2005 Location: Bonham, Tx Posts: 892	Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? I am throwing some money in my sb400 and 350th but I need to make sure that after I can produce the power I can put it on the ground... I'm looking for a .373 Posi and I am going to run 295 tires too. My truck has drop spindles and shackles/hangers. So what could I do? Ladder bars? Dont think so this is going to be a very streetable truck. Traction bars? I heard the only time you can use these is if you have a flip kit. So should I install a flip kit? I'm putting a fuel cell in the back and I may relocate my battery to the back. Any suggestions on how I could Hook up any better?

06-03-2009, 04:51 PM	#2
Prerunner1982 Registered User Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Edmond, OK Posts: 5,906	Re: Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? You might look at what kind/type of tires you are running. __________________ Jon 1982 Chevy Silverado 350/th350.... RETIRED 1993 Jeep XJ 2 door(Cherokee) 4wd 4.0ltr/AX-15 (5spd)/NP231 .... Oklahoma Roll Call

06-03-2009, 05:40 PM	#3
Captkaos www.73-87chevytrucks.com Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: Birmingham, AL Posts: 6,935	Re: Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? CalTracs: http://store.73-87chevytrucks.com/me..._Code=7387SUSP __________________ Chris Lucas 1973 Chevy C-10 1978 GMC Jimmy (2WD) - SOLD 1987 R10 twin turbo LS 1991 R3500 SRW CrewCab 1985 K5 diesel swapped project 1989 K5 2WD conversion w/ Vette susp Project Captkaos Customs 73-87chevytrucks.com

06-03-2009, 05:52 PM	#4
babyJay Arrived on a Pale Horse Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: SnagTown Indiana Posts: 2,524	Re: Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? tub it out and shorten the axle... __________________ Jason 87 V30 350TBI/400 White w/Boss V-plow 89 R3500 CC SRW

06-03-2009, 06:06 PM	#5
Wild83C10 Registered User Join Date: May 2002 Location: NJ Posts: 910	Re: Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? Loosen up the front end. Buy some adjustable drag shocks for the front. Shift as much weight to the rear as possible. __________________ 83 C10 Stepside (SOLD, it was a blast!) 383 MASS-FLO EFI/TKO II 600/3.90 Posi 10 bolt S475 and C4 DM running, fine tuning turbo= Douchebag Racing: Runs Fine all the Time

06-03-2009, 08:57 PM	#8
dammitmitchell the pollock Join Date: May 2008 Location: abilene, texas Posts: 4,423	Re: Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? i get traction in second gear =-) __________________ Jack of ALL trades, Master of none.. (but one... procrastination) Army vet 02-08 RIP El Jay! Miss you brother! http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=343538 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=386042

06-03-2009, 09:42 PM	#9
78 Chevyrado Account Suspended Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Unnapreciative, Trollville Posts: 2,079	Re: Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? I get traction through low power output....lol

06-04-2009, 01:10 AM	#11
pokethesmot profeshinaly unimployed Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: hazlehurst, GA Posts: 1,232	Re: Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? put weight in the back __________________ my ride click here my myspace "having mud flaps is like asking for a smaller trophy" Last edited by pokethesmot; 06-04-2009 at 01:11 AM.

06-04-2009, 09:38 AM	#13
swb85 On a budget like Fred Sanford Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Topeka, KS Posts: 2,031	Re: Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? You do not need a flip kit to use traction bars (commonly referred to as slapper bars) or caltracs. They both do the same thing which is eliminate spring wrap (wheel hop). I have cheapy Lakewood traction bars on my truck (stock height) along with a locker in the rear end. If I had some better tires on there I'd probably hook pretty good, but with the BFG T/A's I can lay rubber for a city block. If you REALLY wanna hook you need the following: -posi rear -TIRES (ie, drag radials) -anti spring wrap mechanism (traction bars or caltracs) -good adjustable shocks at all 4 corners -move as much weight to the rear as possible Keep your wallet handy because stuff starts breaking when you hook __________________ '85 Silverado swb: 383 stroker, 10.5:1, vortec heads, 232/238 roller cam, RPM air gap, performer 750 carb, stainless longtubes, 3" duals/super 44's, T56/4.11 383ci build / exterior refresh thread '98 Camaro z28: 370ci twin turbo 370ci build '01 Tahoe LT 4x4: 5.3, longtubes/ory, magnaflow duals, custom tune....wife's DD

06-04-2009, 09:41 AM	#14
thirdstreettito Resident of Here Join Date: May 2008 Location: Wesley Chapel, FL, USA Posts: 7,716	Re: Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? The only way I have ever gotten traction is with a trailer or loaded bed. __________________ ~Bradley~ 2004 Black GTO LS2/T56 too much to list Miss having a truck

06-04-2009, 11:09 AM	#15
dieseldr4 Registered User Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: apple valley , ca Posts: 125	Re: Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? hooking up 101...ha ha... if you cant get enough weight to the rear, you can always fill the bottom half of the tailgate with lead, i have done 2 tailgate for local guys here in so cal. this works well and get the weight way back where you need it...lead shot or tire weights work good for this.. guess the cats outta the bag now... hope this helps...

06-04-2009, 11:31 AM	#16
Driveway Dreams I have car A.D.D. Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Greeley, Northern Colorado Posts: 4,147	Re: Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? That seems crazy, but I guess it works huh? You just drop them all through the access spaces? How much weight you use, any idea? __________________ -Gerald Building vehicles in memory of the first "car guy" I ever knew, my Grandpa. Bob Dunham 1935-2009. Rest in peace. 61 GMC Suburban SOLD The 86 build thread SOLD Are you a Colorado member?Click here.

06-04-2009, 12:21 PM	#18
Driveway Dreams I have car A.D.D. Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Greeley, Northern Colorado Posts: 4,147	Re: Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? Thats great! Thanks for the ideas. __________________ -Gerald Building vehicles in memory of the first "car guy" I ever knew, my Grandpa. Bob Dunham 1935-2009. Rest in peace. 61 GMC Suburban SOLD The 86 build thread SOLD Are you a Colorado member?Click here.

06-05-2009, 12:24 AM	#19
team39763 Registered User Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Texas Posts: 469	Re: Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? I think you'd be very happy with the Caltracs...especially once you get everything working together - weight tranfer, motor/tune, tires, shocks. I only had half a run down the track with mine(lost a ujoint and twisted the driveshaft) and I seemed to hook pretty good. I gave them a try on the street and I could feel/see the difference. __________________ 1982 Silverado - SBE, cleaned up GM heads, small cam, TH350, 850 Demon, 4.56 gears, and caltracs. Best time so far 11.8@XXXMPH

06-05-2009, 06:04 PM	#20
Captkaos www.73-87chevytrucks.com Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: Birmingham, AL Posts: 6,935	Re: Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? Caltracs work the same with either flipped or not. there are just 2 different brackets for the 2 versions. Or where you wanting an explanation on how Caltracs themselves work? __________________ Chris Lucas 1973 Chevy C-10 1978 GMC Jimmy (2WD) - SOLD 1987 R10 twin turbo LS 1991 R3500 SRW CrewCab 1985 K5 diesel swapped project 1989 K5 2WD conversion w/ Vette susp Project Captkaos Customs 73-87chevytrucks.com



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06-05-2009, 09:57 PM	#21
AceX >130dB Moderator Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Sacramento, CA Posts: 2,130	Re: Hooking up! How do you guys get traction? Cal-tracs and a good set of tires should hold. If it doesn't there are less permanent ways to get wieght in the rear. There are "water bladders" which are bags that you fill with water. They can add up to 400lbs right above the rear end. It can then be drained for the drive home or w/e. Best solution I've found. __________________ Living Life @ 130dB LED Tail Light Conversion; How-to Friend. Father. Brother. RIP El Jay ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLICK HERE and for less than $0.07 a day, you too can help support and build a better forum.

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