Keep in mind this is a 71 with an 86 suspension and 4x4 upgrade.
Here is the rear first. It sets about 3" lower than the front. The spring pack looks a little light to me. I thought I saw some pics that showed the 4x4 should have about 6 leafs in the lower part.
Now the front. I think the suspension is correct, but have serious concerns about the steering. Mostly because the drivers wheel rubs the assist part that attaches to the spindle.
The springs look a little light.... could be why they stacked so many up.
The blocks on the rear axle were commonly used on the W's.... I have
those on my '68 W100. Concerning the rear.... if it carries a load OK, I
wouldn't change anything.... looks like whoever re-did it did a good job.
I'd divert my attention to the front steering stabilizer mount.... it could
cause some serious problems if its rubbing.
John
It sets low without a load, but gets worse with a load., see below. It was easy to control while driving, but doesn't look good at all. Granted the hitch was on the bumper and not dropped. The car is about 4000# and the trailer about 2000#. the car is more centered than it appears, wide angle lens on camera.
might I ask if the easiest solution to the rubbing problem is to pick a rim with the right backspacing for the year model front setup used... just a thought
I would be interested in investigating this. A couple questions then:
What would the correct wheel/tire combo been for a 71 Adventurer SE? And also, how would the steering have varied between a 71 D-100 and a W-100?
A big reason I am concerned is the previous owner told me it had been relocated, and that is why it rubbed. Although when I look under there, I don't see where else it could have been mounted.
On your main spring pack on the rear I count only 4 leafs,on the front I count 6 leafs.I think you should find a pair of rear springs with the same number of leafs or have those rearched and add a leaf.This could be why it sags.
What part of the suspension is the '86 part... that is what made me think maybe the wheel needs to be changed. As far as exact differences between spacing on a D and W series of the same era, I couldn't help you.
looks like they used the newer springs on the rear--better ride,
but not as rigid as the 71 springs
bet it rides good empty--not many 3/4 tons ride good
Fred, you are correct! It rides very smooth for an older 4x4. I would hate to give that up. I have started eyeing Rancho and Skyjackers lift kits to replace all the springs and blocks. I wonder how they ride?
Hi nfury
I recentlylayed under my truck to get an idea for another problem. I took this chance to count the leafs on both axles. My truck is a converted Dodge W200 (1964) - it has another body. Leafs on the front axle: 7, leafs on the rear axle: 10. I think you need more leafs on both axles to reach the capacity to load the full weight. Good luck!
Dieter
Mowag W200, 318 A, 200 HP, 4.88 axle, NP 420 4 speed - 2281199520 (on the frame)
1956 Chrysler New Yorker Newport, 354 HEMI, 2 speed powerflite, N56L3495