Lowering question(s): 1968 C20

[KevinK7]

I've got a '68 C20 (BB 4sp) that I plan to lower a bit and have a few general questions.

First, I'm looking at a static drop (2.5/4), and stay with the C20 8-lugs. Planning to go with (POL) 2.5 drop spindle kit up front (along with disk brakes) and 4" drop (coils) in back.
I don't want the truck slammed, but want it lowered/dropped.

A couple questions:

1.) Shock relocation brackets? Do I need them? I'm planning on getting them, but for those that have done a similar drop, were they necessary?

2.) Adjustable Panhard bar? Again, I'm planning on it, but is it necessary with this drop?

3.) I realize the rears are typically dropped approx. 2" more than the front, but my truck sits about level today. I would even go with a 3" drop in the back but would it be enough to keep the truck level?

I have other questions on wheels tires, but I'll put that in a separate thread.

Thanks in advance for any information,

Kevin

Here is the truck as it is today...

[lolife99]

Use the longest panhard bar you can buy.
This is the only way to re-center the rearend after lowering.

Remember the drop springs size is compared to brand new stock height springs,... not your wore out 40+year old springs.


Most say shock relocators aren’t necessary with only a 4” rear drop,... but I would use them with some good quality drop shocks on all four corners.
The stock rear shock angle is marginal at best in my opinion.

[Aus69c20]

The back end of my c20 only has 1.5” blocks and original springs. In preparation for bags I put an ece trac bar that connects at the trailing arm and shock relocation kit. I was surprised at how much more planted and stable the rear end felt even with such a small drop.

[KevinK7]

Thanks for the replies.
...and very true on the 40+ (50) year old springs sagging.

The other comment I should have made (not that it will matter much for lowering) is that I am most likely going to replace the utility with a fleetside.
Hard part is that it appears the utility body ("Servis" brand) has been on since day one, not sure I want to let it go yet : )

[Aus69c20]

I vote to keep the service body on it. They can look great.

[northerngmc]

I used 2/4" drop coil springs on my 68 C20 from a 1/2 ton. Very happy with the drop. I did not use a different panhard bar or drop shock mounts. At the time I dropped it I did some research on here and decided against replacing them. The rear still looks centered.

[67_C-30]

Originally Posted by northerngmc

I used 2/4" drop coil springs on my 68 C20 from a 1/2 ton. Very happy with the drop. I did not use a different panhard bar or drop shock mounts. At the time I dropped it I did some research on here and decided against replacing them. The rear still looks centered.

I've got away with the same thing.

In my experiences, I've found that 2/4 McGaughy drop springs seem to drop the truck a little lower than a 2/4 CPP or ECE.

[71cheyennesuperlongb]

IMO Ithink you cant go wrong with rear shock relocators.The origonal shocks lay down at such a angle that when you drop it they dont work very much at all.I used NO LIMIT relocators that mount behind and outboard the frame.I would highly recommend this kit.Much better ride quality even with cheap Monroe shocks.

[grumptruck]

Ive considered looking into lowering my 67 C3500 a bit also. I don NOT have the rear shock absorber option too contend with.
I also vote to keep the service body if at all possible. I might be a tiny bit biased however. What was your truck originally used for?

[KevinK7]

Thanks for the replies.

The more I'm reading the more I think I will go with the relocators.
I've seen the No Limit versions before, and they look pretty solid and are what I'm considering.
Most of the other stuff (drop spindles, etc) I think I may be going with POL, primarily since they offer the 8-lug (C20) spindles and I'm hoping to keep it to 1 manufacturer.

GrumpTruck, I'm not far from you since I've seen your truck in New Paltz
My '68 (currently still out west) I believe was owned by a plumber in Arizona in it's early days.
...and yes I am thinking of leaving the Utitility on. : )

[grumptruck]

you know what??? im just realizing that your from the hudson valley !!! small world. where was I when you saw the grumptruk?

[KevinK7]

Originally Posted by grumptruck

you know what??? im just realizing that your from the hudson valley !!! small world. where was I when you saw the grumptruk?

...Thinking it was Lowes in New Paltz (but this was last fall). : )

[grumptruck]

ah ha. yeah a favorite spot of mine