Thread: 1940 Chevy front suspension

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I'm new to this list. I posted this question yesterday in Hot Rod forum and I guess it should have been posted in Shop Talk so here it is again.1940 Chevy front suspension

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I am trying to build a cruiser out of a ;40 Chevy 2dr. I am trying to decide if I should buy new shocks for the front end or replace the whole thing with Mustang or what ever. The original front suspension is in good shape except for the shocks. One has a loose bushing and won't hold shock fluid. I have a complete front clip from a Mustang 2. I also have a '80 Volare torsion bar front clip but it appears to be too wide tread. I'm not building a show car so polished A frames aren't necessary. Rebuilt shocks cost about $375.00. Weld in Mustang cross members are around $400.00. I'd like to have good ride and controllability as cheap as possible. Does anyone have any experience and/or advice? The power train will be a 250 ci 6, 700R4 and camero rear end. I want the car to look pretty original.
Bob T

I wouldn't go with the Volare clip - especially if you have the Mustang clip sitting next to it. I guess it comes down to how much work you want to do. Obviously, changing the shocks only takes a turn of the wrench or two - but then, you have a 1940's suspension.

Installing a MII suspension isn't hard, but you have to be careful, and be able to weld - or take it to someone who can. It will be a lot more work to use the MII, but the ride will be worth it. I installed one in a '30 A-bone sedan, and it rode like a slot car. You will not regret using a MII setup if you're looking for a cruiser.

If you go with the MII, I recommend Heidt's. They've done their homework.

I agree with Henry! Although there are allot of company's that have the Must II. Heidts is great but do not be afraid to look around like TCI or Fatmans.

Thanks, Jeremy and Henry. I have stick, gas and MIG welders so the welding part isn't a problem. I put a Camero Clip in my '48 Hudson. I worry about getting the geometry and ride height right. What do you think about Chassis Engineering's bolt in cross member? The geometry should be correct and the ride height is adjustable. Do you get instructions and measurements with weld in cross members? I've heard of some MII installations that weren't right and the car didn't drive worth a flip.
Bob T

Bob, I like the MII fronts, good handling and ride. You have a pm.

CE is good. Heidt's gives detailed instructions.