Originally posted by Don Shillady
Is this height considered normal for a street rod?
The normal measure is "scrub line". Basically, you shouldn't have anything hanging down any lower than what would come in contact with the ground if you have a flat. With a 185/70 4" should be okay. I've done a couple cars with a 4" drop axle and 195/60's and been just fine. If you look at the '32 roadster in my gallery, that's what I had with that, plus a monoleaf spring and it worked just fine. Speed bumps aren't usually an issue because you take them straight on and both front wheels go up and down together so clearance at the axle stays the same. You want to make sure you don't have oil pan, bell housing, or rear brackets (if you have 4 bars on front) hanging down too far. Take driveway aprons at an angle rather than straight on. Watch out for manhole covers that stick up, and of course pot holes. And yes, grade the lane.

I've driven lowered cars for years so probably have the higher awareness ingrained in my subconscious. It does take a more attentive driving style.

But then I had this car that had 1 5/8" clearance at the nose........the guy who bought it from me couldn't get it in his drive when he got home with it.