Model T Chassis Design

I've been sketching a few ideas about how I want to put a front and rear suspension on a T bucket I am gathering parts for.

I've got an idea for a rear suspension that should harness more power than I'll put in the car.

But I'm stumped on how to set up the front end for ride height. I am thinking about a 6" drop tube axle with hairpins and spring behind. For tires I will run 165R15's on 5" wheels.

Should it be set up when/while the frame is built?

 

6 inch drop is huge. 4 is more workable, what are you planning on using for a front spring mount?

 

Here is your model. It is a 6" drop, spring behind axle with 5.60-15 tires on the front.





Given your variables, ride height only depends on spring rate and front end weight. As a rule of thumb, you want 3" of suspension movement for most suspension configurations.

 

If you're building the chassis yourself you'll want the actual wheels, tires and suspension components you'll be using on hand before you begin tacking rails and cross-members together. You'll be building the chassis from the wheels up. Grab a couple of books, get some articles and check out what's out on the web. Tons of info on building a bucket out there.

Here's one of Speedway's simple chassis' for an example of one way to do it.

http://static.speedwaymotors.com/images/charts/715-1000.jpg


Good luck with it!

-Mike.

 

Those are pretty sweet. How much clearance you have under there?

 

I have about 3 1/2" of clearance under the oil pan (the lowest part).

 

That's kinda what I was figuring. 6" does look a little big. Any front shot of those two T's? They look nice.

I'm heading to Carlisle next week and have two books on my list to look for.

 

Speed bumps would be a kick in the ass here.