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SR
Dodge Dakota
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8/11/2004
20:30:46

Subject: Suspension question
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I have an 03 4x4 QC, which I mostly drive with the bed unloaded, or occasionally loaded with relatively light, but bulky items. In other words, the truck is never loaded to capacity.

Being as the truck is typically unloaded, the rear end tends to shudder going over bumps, particularly when turning at the same time.

My question is whether there are any modifications I can do to correct this problem? I've heard of removing a rear leaf spring, and potentially replacing the shocks. Has anyone had experience with either of these methods, or can they suggest something else? Or is this just an uncorrectible characteristic of a tail-light vehicle? Thanks.



mcarthey
Dodge Dakota
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8/11/2004
20:38:06

RE: Suspension question
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Personally I'd worry that taking out a spring would cause potential bottoming-out problems over large bumps. I'd probably look around for load-sensing shocks or adjustables. I have Edelbrock IAS and am happy with them, although I need to go find a speed bump now and give it a try. ;)
What about an air ride system?
Mark




.boB
Dodge Dakota
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8/11/2004
23:15:18

RE: Suspension question
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I think the QC is fairly well balanced. So the unloaded bed isn't nearly the issue that it is with other pick ups.

I think you would be happier with a better shock. I have Rancho 5000's on mine, and I think they are excellent. They are a little harsh, and both ends will bounce if I'm going to fast over a dirt wash board. But rough pavement is handled with no problem, and the truck corners very flat and predicatbly. The shocks were pretty cheap, too.

I've heard a lot of folks talk about Edelbrock IAS shocks, and they all have nothing but good things to say about them. I think they are a little pricey for a truck, but I'm a cheap bastard.




Eric N.
Dodge Dakota
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8/11/2004
23:20:13

RE: Suspension question
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Have you ever heard of Velvet-Ride shackles? I haven't seen anything of 'em in a few years, but they were replacement shackles that looked like a big hinge at 90 degrees, and they had a large urathane bushing in 'em. Unloaded, the soft urathane bushing would compress and absorb about 1½" of travel. Load the bed, and the urathane would compress, leaving the spring to do all the suspension work.

Read about 'em here. (Quick Google search)
http://www.ipdusa.com/ProductsCat.aspx?CategoryID=617&NodeID=1292&RootID=637



Kowalski
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8/12/2004
19:05:10

RE: Suspension question
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Airing down the rear tires is another way to control spring rate. Don't go too low; but if you're running high pressure to try to get better milage it will make this worse.

Lead, follow, or get out of the way

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