Hi gang,

I apologize if I'm in the wrong spot (I'd appreciate any pointers to the "right spot" if that's the case) but I'm looking for some advice on Independent Rear Suspension options.

First some background; I am building a 1953 Ford F100 pickup which I would like to put an IRS under. I currently have a Horton's Evolution II front end (Mustang II based, similar to Heidt's) which will be mated to a fully boxed custom frame. Power will come from a 400 hp (approx.) 5.8L EFI motor backed by an AOD trans. The truck will ride on 18" or 20" rims and will utilize air suspension at all four corners (separate bag and shock, not all-in-one units like Shockwaves). However, before I can go any further, I have to figure out what rearend to use and I'd prefer it to be an IRS but I don't want to spend the $4K or so that a Heidt's 9" IRS commands.

This is where you come in. Do you know of any cheaper alternatives that would work with the above combination? I am looking for good handling, and decent ride quality with 1/4 mile times being a distant third. Has anybody done the research into this that can pass their findings on to me? Any web sites that deal with this topic in some detail?

One option I am very interested in is the Thunderbird SC 8.8" IRS. Has anybody used this rearend and if so, how well did it work? Does anybody know how much hp/torque this IRS handles in stock trim? Are there any kits available for using this IRS in a hot rod or custom vehicle? Are tubular/custom A-arms available? Large disc brake kits? Air bag mounts/kits?

Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Glen Mead - SOCP Webmaster
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Southern Ontario Classic Pickups
http://www.socp.net
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