Wanting to build 4 link suspension

[aMcBurnett]

I am thinking for building a 4 link suspension for my 2007 dodge so I can run complete air bags on the back and hopefully help the harsh ride of the dodge... any sugestions would be greatly appriciated. where to find plans? or if its a good idea? or maybe an easier setup?

 

[Bob4x4]

Kelderman already builds a kit... ... ... ...

 

[aMcBurnett]

Yes but Im old fashion and like getting my hands dirty plus dont want to spend that much money...

 

[Mhannink]

cost wise i think you'll actually be cheaper buying a kit. did this a while back and ended up spending a lot more than i thought i would. granted i lifted it and put wheels and tires on it as well.



as for suggestions, make the control arms as long as possible. i have been contemplating a simialr set up myself but i want to do the front too so then arms would come to the mid point of the wheel base. the longer arms keep the axle moving more vertically and from what i can tell really improve the ride in that alone. when i first did this i went with a paralell set up like the front. it worked but looking back i should have taken the extra time and gone with a double triangulated set up. it flexes better and eliminates the need for a track bar, but takes a lot of work and thought to do right. also, regardless of the style you go with make the top links slightly shorter than the bottom. this helps keep the u-joints straight inline even when flexed out.



the easist set up is a paralell set up. if this is what you do, make the arms long, top shorter than bottom, make the track bar as long as possible but also as close to level as possible (there is a balance there), also especially with air bags think about suspension travel. you'll need limit straps for sure, but where you put the bags will change how much travel you have and how much weight you can handle.



give me an idea of the goals your looking to acheive and i will try to help you set it up best. suspension looks simple but there are a lot of factors that really affect the design and build of a suspension. we need to start with what the end goals will be.

 

[DGamelin]

Mhannink is right about getting your goals straight first. Is this truck going to be used to tow big loads and worked like a truck or just for show or are going off road and looking for articulation? I am not a fan of air bags off road, it can be done, but for a road and big loads they make for a nice set up. I would use a 4 link with a track bar for a truck that I am going to tow and make work.



The last one we built was a 3 link front suspension for a jeep and it worked out great. The only regret was something done when we built the narrowed axle. Do not try to save a buck it will bite you. You will spend more then you think. Thats where a kit can be a deal.



We are about to build a triangulated rear as soon as we get done with the axle.

The best advice is to study as many suspensions as you can find out there.



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