Lowering a 71 'Cuda

[cderekw]

I've never lowered a car before, real or model, and have no idea how to go about doing it.

You can see the build I'm working on in the "on the workbench" section

But can anyone guide me in lowering the 71 Hemi 'Cuda kit? I would greatly appreciate it.

[Guest]

It's real easy on a '71 'Cuda Derek. Up front,cut the spindles loose and glue them back on in a higher position. Out back,you can cut the rear shackles off from the springs to lower it. If you need or want more in the rear,you'll have to cut the rearend loose from the springs and add spacers between the rearend and the springs. I recommend getting yourself some photo etch saw blades or a razor saw to do your cutting. It makes re-assembly a lot easier.

[VW Dave]

To keep the front end lowering simple and strong, and provding you weren't building for contest scrutiny, I'd take a bit of a shortcut and shave the front frame rails where the suspension member meets it; you keep the side-to-side wheel alignment and strength of the whole kit part. You'll just have to notch the center crossmember to clear the oil pan and maybe the exhaust when it goes together.

On the rear end, I agree 100% with Roger; shave the spring perches down to get to your desired ride height. If you do go low enough, however, you will likely have to lengthen the driveshaft