Clearance around bags

[Coach529]

I am installing some Slam Specialties SS-7 bags in my 1949 Chevy 3600.

Thunderbird IRS in the back, Scott Danforth Cross Member in the front.



I am setting the back up now and I am a little tight on space with the 7" bag. I plan to open up the notch a little since I have room available.





Is there a rule of thumb.....or a guideline on how clearance you should have around the bag to prevent chaffing or a rub?

Thanks in advance?

[PGSigns]

I try and make sure I have a 1/2 inch. On you welds, slow down on the travel and maybe turn up the heat. The ones on the sides look like they have little penetration.
Jimmy

[Coach529]

Originally Posted by PGSigns

I try and make sure I have a 1/2 inch. On you welds, slow down on the travel and maybe turn up the heat. The ones on the sides look like they have little penetration.
Jimmy

Thanks for the input.

[andrewmp6]

I was always told a finger gap between the bag and anything it could touch.Anything the bag rubs on could rub a hole in it over time since its rubber.

[Coach529]

Originally Posted by andrewmp6

I was always told a finger gap between the bag and anything it could touch.Anything the bag rubs on could rub a hole in it over time since its rubber.

That is what I am shooting for.

Thanks!!

[SCOTI]

Why not go w/a smaller OD bag? The 7" bag is better suited for the front weight bias on a truck.

[Coach529]

Originally Posted by SCOTI

Why not go w/a smaller OD bag? The 7" bag is better suited for the front weight bias on a truck.

That was an option that I thought about as well.

I just really did not want to go through the hassle of selling these bags, buying new, etc.

[SCOTI]

Originally Posted by Coach529

That was an option that I thought about as well.

I just really did not want to go through the hassle of selling these bags, buying new, etc.

Seems easier vs the option of cutting & opening up the notch more since it appears a little thin as-is (might just be the angle on the pics).

[Coach529]

I am not too worried about the integrity of the notch, but you have me thinking.

Is there a ride quality difference between the two bags?

[SCOTI]

Originally Posted by Coach529

I am not too worried about the integrity of the notch, but you have me thinking.

Is there a ride quality difference between the two bags?

Yes, there can be a difference but 'how much' is subjective. Some guys run the larger bags in the rear & use less pressure to achieve ride height for a better ride. I tried that on my 68 (7" bag equivalent) on the rear & found I was @ <30psi for my ride height. It basically had no spring rate @ that low of a pressure & the result was a very bouncy ride quality. By swapping to smaller bags I had to increase the inflation pressure to achieve the same ride height. Now I was @ ~40psi & no more bouncy ride (same shocks used for both).

Some guys may not notice. I definitely could.