4-bar vs. leaf springs

[Hertzdaddy]

I am curious about the performance differences between a 4-bar rear suspension, like you get with most of the air ride setups, vs leaf springs. I've considered a full-on 4-link system for my 73 Jimmy but I'm not sure I want to take on a project like that. A bolt-on (more or less) 4-bar/panhard system looks appealing if performance gains are to be had. Lets assume coilover for the 4-bar suspension in this case. Frame is already notched.

Is there a great improvement in ride quality?

What about traction in higher horsepower applications? Would a Leaf/Caltrac system perform better?

What about strength?

Other considerations?

[LONGHAIR]

The 4 bar system is far more adjustable than leaf springs. Plus there is no spring wrap. It is not as intense as a 4-link, but better than leaf.

[andrewmp6]

Depends how much power and are talking about a street truck or more of a drag truck?A 4 bar is better then leafs but a race 4 link will top a 4 bar in adjustments.

[Hertzdaddy]

Probably 95+% street. It has 500HP and about 580TQ. I'm not sure what most of the 4-bar systems can handle. Street tires for now but maybe something stickier in the future.

[andrewmp6]

From what i have heard about 500hp is around the limit for most 4 bar set ups,Maybe if you used bigger rod ends or something it might take it.But i would lean more to a race 4 link those are about bullet proof if installed right.

[cory d]

on the cheap. caltrack bars and a panhard will help a ton. thats my plan

[69gmcc10]

Originally Posted by cory d

on the cheap. caltrack bars and a panhard will help a ton. thats my plan

I like this idea allot. It is cheap, easy, can be done progressively and will keep down time of the truck to a minimum.

[LONGHAIR]

Why would you need a panhard bar with leaf springs?

[69gmcc10]

Though minimal, leaf springs will still allow the rear of the truck to deflect side to side through both the bushings and the springs them selves. The panhard bar just keeps that from happening.