Wayne,
There are several kits made to install power steering and disk
brakes on your original suspension and I'm told they work pretty well.
Since I haven't done one of them I can't speak to the complexity or
quality. I can tell you that the cost will be about 2/3 of an IFS system
so if money is an object keep that in mind. On the other hand an IFS
system will buy you a much better ride and a wide choice of brake
systems as well as a choice of power or manual steering. If you're a
good shopper at swap meets you can install a new IFS system for under a
grand including bit GM disk brakes and power steering.
If you decide to go the IFS route, I would suggest you buy a quality
kit from a nationally known supplier like Heidts or Fat Man. I have
personally had problems with RB's service so I won't recommend them. I
would also recommend the weld on kit. Even if you purchase a bolt on
kit I would still weld it in place just for the extra safety that
provides. You can see how easy these things are to install on my web
site, http://www.geocities.com/mrrodder/start.html There is a step by
step "how to" article on how I installed my Heidts IFS on Ole Yeller (My
'53). Having done them before it took me only about 6 hours, with some
help you could easily do it in a weekend. Remember, a good quality kit
will come with easy to follow instructions so it's not as difficult as
you might think.
Good luck either way.
Bill
'53 3100
I recently purchased a 1953 Chevy 1/2 ton PU. The truck has a 327 Chevy
SB and
a 72 Camaro Posi rear axle, but still has the original front suspension.
It
seems a shame to replace the original front suspension because it was
recently
rebuilt and is like new, but the brake system really sucks, and the
steering
system is out of phase. I'm weighing the options. Should I keep the
original
front suspension, but convert to disk brakes, or just bite the bullet
and put
in a modern front suspension? If I convert to an IFS, I've been looking
at the
Fat Man IFS Stage II Kit, and also am considering "RB's" bolt-in
suspension.
My welding skills are nil, but I could probably get a friend who is an
excellent welder to help me with the Fat Man kit. I could probably do
the
"bolt-in" myself.
I would welcome any opinions on the subject.
Thanks,
A.W.
oletrucks is devoted to Chevy and GM trucks built between 1941 and 1959
|