question on rear shocks, after flip kit

[radar1]

I have a 85 GMC short bed. So far I have purchased a lot of parts to get the look that I am after. So here is the list: 3 inch Bell tech spindles, rear flip kit, and I have a set of Cal-trac traction bars on order. My plan is to cut one coil on the front springs, install the drop spindles, and flip the rear. So far it all sounds like I am OK. But what I am a little lost on is the rear shocks. I thought I read on this forum at one time, that after the flip you could run the front shocks on the rear. I guess what I am asking is what options, other than drop shocks, is everyone using?

[Ziegelsteinfaust]

I have used shock extenders in the rear, and that probably would be my favorite way.

It also gives you a better shock angle.

[SkinnyG]

I made my own flip kit and extenders. They worked awesome.

[ivorton74]

I used Gabriel air shocks on mine...works like a charm

[DREAMER1]

X2 on the shock extenders.

[Tuff 1986]

Originally Posted by radar1

I have a 85 GMC short bed. So far I have purchased a lot of parts to get the look that I am after. So here is the list: 3 inch Bell tech spindles, rear flip kit, and I have a set of Cal-trac traction bars on order. My plan is to cut one coil on the front springs, install the drop spindles, and flip the rear. So far it all sounds like I am OK. But what I am a little lost on is the rear shocks. I thought I read on this forum at one time, that after the flip you could run the front shocks on the rear. I guess what I am asking is what options, other than drop shocks, is everyone using?

Can u give me a parts number on the Cal-trac traction bars u are going to use.. I'm thinking of getting some.. I hope they can help with the axle wrap problem that I am having..

[radar1]

yea, I'd be happy to. As soon as they come in. Hopefully by this Friday.

[BigMike608]

I used shock extenders and rear OE replacement shocks

Shock extenders:
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/ws...et?prefilter=1

Rear Shocks:
http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/more...543&cc=1059825

[bigblock73]

I always run dropped shocks. I like the Bell Tech Nitro Drops. Not a fan of shock extenders...seems like more parts that really aren't needed. KISS.

[66/87chevy]

Originally Posted by bigblock73

I always run dropped shocks. I like the Bell Tech Nitro Drops. Not a fan of shock extenders...seems like more parts that really aren't needed. KISS.

X2 on the Bell Tech Nitro drop shocks. I just did this a few weeks ago.

[rudey737]

I'm running shock extenders and stock replacement shocks with a 4.5/6 drop. I'm pretty sure the cost was the same if I used drop shocks or shock extenders and stock replacement shocks. The ride is fine on the rear with this set up, but I need drop shocks up front. The stock replacement shocks up front are a little too bouncy.

[naphtali5725]

Originally Posted by bigblock73

I always run dropped shocks. I like the Bell Tech Nitro Drops. Not a fan of shock extenders...seems like more parts that really aren't needed. KISS.

are drop shocks, or extenders mandatory? i put stock shocks on mine after the flip kit, but i haven't driven it yet... do i need to worry?

[radar1]

Just wanted to say thanks, to all for the suggestions.
I have been collecting parts for several months now. I just need to get after it. The plan is to get the motor in, and break in the new camshaft. Then all of the suspension pieces go into place. Hopefully I'll have more to report in a few weeks.

[radar1]

I haven't figured out how to post multiple pictures yet. Wanted to post a picture of the Truck as well. I plan on getting the motor and suspension worked out, then I will work on body and paint.

[radar1]

I received some goodies today. I am so excited. The part numbers that I ordered was TBK6798. I hope in the next few weeks I can be installing, and will try to post some pictures then.

[Tuff 1986]

Thanks.. For the parts # on the trac bars.. You have a really nice truck..

[johnokc]

Originally Posted by naphtali5725

are drop shocks, or extenders mandatory? i put stock shocks on mine after the flip kit, but i haven't driven it yet... do i need to worry?

Have you found the answer to this? Just flipped mine - have some old air shocks but want to go with regular shocks. Drop shocks (or extender brackets) are absolutely needed?

[bbbc10]

Yes. Drop shocks and extenders are needed shocks to for change of the height an extenders to correct the angle an take stress of the shock mount

[malc1080]

I didn’t want to start a new thread but I also have the same question regarding drop shocks and shock extenders. I purchased my western chassis flip kit and getting ready for a 4/6 drop on my 1980 c10. I see belltech offers the street performance shocks with different drop ratings but I see people say they still use shock extenders for the rear and front. Others say they use it only for OEM shocks and hear that KYB shocks are the best.. If that’s the case, I’ll be ordering the front and rear shocks extenders from western chassis but I like to hear what others are doing. I want the best shock ride and get a way from the c notch. Thanks!

[SCOTI]

Originally Posted by malc1080

I didn’t want to start a new thread but I also have the same question regarding drop shocks and shock extenders. I purchased my western chassis flip kit and getting ready for a 4/6 drop on my 1980 c10. I see belltech offers the street performance shocks with different drop ratings but I see people say they still use shock extenders for the rear and front. Others say they use it only for OEM shocks and hear that KYB shocks are the best.. If that’s the case, I’ll be ordering the front and rear shocks extenders from western chassis but I like to hear what others are doing. I want the best shock ride and get a way from the c notch. Thanks!

Shocks won't have much impact on "getting away from a c-notch". You either need one or you don't. When doing a flip-kit, the number of leafs in the leaf spring pack is more of a determining factor.

Drop shocks can work if the valving is correct for the application.
Stock length shocks offer more travel which usually yields a better ride quality (the longer the shock & spring, the better the ride usually is). Relocation brackets are typically used to keep the shock geometry in check as well as restore some travel length when using a stock replacement shock.