2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission suspension

[Wyomingcowboy]

I know I'm sort of beating a dead horse here, but I need some advice on suspension parts to buy. I have the engine out re-building it and the transmission is soon to follow, so I thought that I might as well spend some dough on suspension parts too. I am thinking a DSS? 3rd gen track bar? New Bilsteins all the way around are way over due anyway... . What else, guys? I have not had many issues with tire wear or anything, but it will never be easier than now!

 

[Dave M]

I'll take a stab at it and give you some advise based on my experience. I'd recommend the 3rd gen TB (I went adjustable... cost another $100) and the DSS, as you've indicated, as a must do first step. I went Bilstein shocks front/back and energy front suspension poly control arm/sway bar bushings and replaced the end links (your choice... I used Moog).



Next is the steering box. I went 3 turn PSC (no longer available) with light valving which I love since the steering is now effortless. I'd suggest PSS for a 3 turn box or for $1000+ go for the PSC (or other brand) cylinder assist steering. Since the steering boxes are not reliable to find I'll consider this route if I need another steering box, but for now my box is fine. I also have 2 steering stabilizers (Rancho Susp. ) but there are other brands available.



Last of all is consider the Y-to-T conversion (about $400 of Moog parts from rockauto.com). If I need replacement tie rod parts etc. then I plan to convert then. I'm not sure how well the mods above will fit with the conversion.



My steering/suspension has been very satisfying since I completed these mods.



In addition I replaced my warped calipers with drilled/slotted rotors and that stopped another death wobble after I completed the suspension mods. What works for you may be different depending on the wear of your current setup.



Good luck,

 

[JasonMcNabb]

To share my 0. 02 here goes:



1) Closely check the ball joints, wheel bearings, etc.

2) I have installed the DSS track bar in both my trucks. I waited too long and lost the seal in my 99 and had to rebuild the steering box too. This is a cheap but very important items to tighten up the front end of these trucks (even the third gen units).

3) I'm a big fan of Rancho RS5000 shocks, simple no adjustments and fairly durable.

4) I have not done it yet but I think I should be putting the MAXX links on both my trucks. Check out the other posts on MAXX links.



Good luck

 

[EBung]

I agree with ^^^^^ but would throw in a KORE HP front level kit with the bilstein 5100s it comes with and I 2nd the y to t conversion. The Thuren 2nd gen track bar is probably THE best value out there for our trucks and KORE just came out with one also.

 

[CumminsPower91]

You might look at DT PRODUCTS they have been a big help for me with rebuilding my front end. They set up a package deal for me with there heavy-duty track bar, link arms, steering stabilizer system, leveling kit and new shocks all the way around. There worth looking into.