1955 Ford Front Suspension Questions.

[bigdaddy3]

Ok, so I've got the Aerostar springs and Kyb shocks ready to go on. I've got the shocks off so far.

I've consulted the 1955 Ford Service Manual. It talks about using a special tool to remove the ball joints to replace the springs. Is there an easier/better way without messing with the ball joints?

Also, I know I need to replace the bushings on the lower arm as well as the upper arm. Everything I've read so far says replace the shafts, bushings, washers and nuts. Everything related.

Joblot has a kit to replace both upper and lower for $115. Attached.

Also, the bushings and end links for the stabilizer bar will be replaced.

What else while I'm under the front end doing suspension?

Please and thank you in advance.

 

[Y-Blockhead]

Big, there was another thread on this site not too long ago that discussed taking apart the front end and replacing springs.

 

[Y-Blockhead]

You will have to "mess with the ball joints" to change out the springs. This is the thread I mentioned in my other post; http://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=87713

 

[streetdreams]

You've removed coil springs before , correct? If not, hold off until the guys on this thread give you some pointers, else you may hurt yourself.

 

[JeffB2]

I guess you are looking for this:http://www.webrodder.com/article.php?AID=310&SID=8&CID=11

 

[bigdaddy3]

As usual, I am glad I came here first. Thanks very much. A few more questions.

How will I know if the ball joints need to be replaced?

I was planning on using the existing stabilizer bar with new poly bushings, but I have seen some folks via for a larger diameter bar. Is there that much of a difference?

Thanks again. Glad you all are here.

Btw, I put Posies Super Slide leaf springs on the car two weeks ago and it dropped about 4". Rides much better as well with the KYB shocks.

 

[Ole Don]

Front stabilizer diameter differences? Yes, there is a huge difference. A stock 55 Ford did OK in 1955. As you are lowering your car, the addition of a heavier sway bar to the front will keep the car level on the curves and make the car very compatible with modern day traffic. The poly bushings need to be greased once a year to keep them quiet. A small price to pay for tightening up that front end.

 

[frank long island]

if you are going to have the frontend apart replacing the balljoints is cheap insurance to prevent further problems down the line

 

[JohnSunliner]

Jeff and Don, I used Jamco springs instead of Aerostar. They were to lower it 2 inches but dropped it 4 inches to the rubber top stops. With Aerostar springs how much room is there between the A arm and the top rubber bumper? Out of the whole Jamco kit, front and rear shocks and springs, the only thing they shipped after 4 months was these two coils! I am thinking I may need to go with Aerostar springs.

 

[ken ct]

I would carfully inspect your front cross member,55 & 56 had a problem with rust through from the inside out.Make sure its a good one. ken ct.

 

[streetdreams]

Used Aerostar coils on Ron's '56 Vicky with what I think are great results.

 

[Y-Blockhead]

I used Jamco springs instead of Aerostar.

I would stay away from Jamco. I have heard a lot of stories like yours that customers have had to wait a long time to get their parts and they are expensive. See if you can return your Jamco springs and get the Aerostar springs. I got mine from Amazon.com of all places. Free Shipping.Moog-CC850 Springs

As to your question, I have Aerostar springs and 1" spring cup spacers and I had to trim the rubber bumper. With just springs it they will be pretty close but not quite hitting ~1".

 

[JohnSunliner]

Thanks Y-Blockhead, it sounds like Aerostar is about 1 inch higher. I will probably switch them. I am done with Jamco, they also charge your credit card when you order not when the goods are delivered! Seems like an opportunity for some one to step in and actually deliver what they sell in a timely fashion.

 

[JeffB2]

Thanks Y-Blockhead, it sounds like Aerostar is about 1 inch higher. I will probably switch them. I am done with Jamco, they also charge your credit card when you order not when the goods are delivered! Seems like an opportunity for some one to step in and actually deliver what they sell in a timely fashion.

If you have a bunch of time on your hands this will keep you busy:http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&...11.0.les;cpsugrpq1high..0.0...1.1.oXXELyDXYm8 Jamco was a HAMB Alliance vendor Ryan had to remove them due to the volume of complaints,call your credit card company ASAP.Sending you a pm.