Thread: 4 link or Hairpins

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I would also advise going with a four-bar setup. And if you are using a tubular axle, you cannot run hairpins so a four-bar is you only option.

Originally Posted by rumrumm

And if you are using a tubular axle, you cannot run hairpins so a four-bar is you only option.

That statement just is not so!

The stock 1937 Ford V8-60 came with a tubular front axle and used a standard wishbone to locate it. Many other manufacturers also had tubular front axles that were located with means other than the 4-bar setup.

While many believe that it is necessary to run a 4-bar setup when they have selected a tubular front axle because the tubular makeup allows less flex than the typical I-beam front axle, there just isn't that much flexing invloved to warrant making the 4-bar the only option.

I will agree that the parallel 4-bar setup to locate the front axle (whether tubular or I-beam) is superior, it is not the only option.

I guess I should amend my statement to "your could run the original wishbone set up or go IFS." But the main point of my post involved a safety issue with running hairpins with a tubular front axle. It should not be done because there is a risk of breakage.

The four bar gives the least amount of resistance, if set up properly.
Ken