Coilover conversion question

1959 Apache

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Nov 18, 2020
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I have a stock 2006 duramax that I need to convert to coilover front suspension. It will be driven on road 90% of the time and I only want to raise it to be level with the stock rear suspension height. BDS makes a kit, but it is $5K and would raise my truck 4.5 inches which I don't want. Is there a way to simply add a 2.5 inch coilover in place of the stock shock? Any thoughts on how to proceed would be greatly appreciated.
 

2004LB7

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Dec 15, 2010
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JAMES! someone needs your expertise....

Apache, have you searched the threads here? There are several that discuss coilovers for our trucks
 

1959 Apache

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Nov 18, 2020
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JAMES! someone needs your expertise....

Apache, have you searched the threads here? There are several that discuss coilovers for our trucks
yes, most are for lifted or 4wd, extra travel, etc....I have not found one where it is just for level ride height
 

Chevy1925

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There is no bolt in option for what you want. you will have to fabricate a new frame mount and dictate your ride height off the new coilover and mount you build. 6" stroke shock is all you need but an 8" stroke shock will work too.
 

JoshH

Daggum farm truck
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Can I ask why you need to convert it to coilover? There is really no benefit over a torsion bar other than weight.
 

1959 Apache

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Can I ask why you need to convert it to coilover? There is really no benefit over a torsion bar other than weight.
I am putting a 1959 cab on the '06 chassis. In order to get the front wheel to center in the '59 fender, and to have sufficient room for the radiator, intercooler, etc....I have to relocate the engine and trans back in the frame about 8 inches. When I do that the transfer case wants to occupy the same space as the torsion bar cross member. the easiest solution (at least I thought at the time) was to eliminate the torsion bar setup and go to a coilover....and maybe gain a better ride in the process. As I said earlier, I don't need or want a lift, just a level truck with coilovers. I am a reasonably good fabricator, and can ask really good ones for help if needed. I don't mind the fabrication work as long as it is in the right direction.
 

1959 Apache

New member
Nov 18, 2020
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There is no bolt in option for what you want. you will have to fabricate a new frame mount and dictate your ride height off the new coilover and mount you build. 6" stroke shock is all you need but an 8" stroke shock will work too.
I am assuming the limitation in the stock geometry is the distance between the stock shock mounting points ? If I relocate the upper coilover mount will I likely have to change out the upper control arm for clearance? The lower control arm?
 

1959 Apache

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Nov 18, 2020
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I am assuming the limitation in the stock geometry is the distance between the stock shock mounting points ? If I relocate the upper coilover mount will I likely have to change out the upper control arm for clearance? The lower control arm?
what coilover would you recommend?
 

Chevy1925

don't know sh!t about IFS
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Oct 21, 2009
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I am assuming the limitation in the stock geometry is the distance between the stock shock mounting points ? If I relocate the upper coilover mount will I likely have to change out the upper control arm for clearance? The lower control arm?

yes you will need a new UCA, something like a camburg or cognito round tube arms so there is clearance at full droop. lower arm is fine on the stock mounts, they hold up well. depending on body diameter of shock, you will either need a 3" shock eyelet extension to clear cv's (if you have 4wd) or no extension.
 

1959 Apache

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Nov 18, 2020
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yes you will need a new UCA, something like a camburg or cognito round tube arms so there is clearance at full droop. lower arm is fine on the stock mounts, they hold up well. depending on body diameter of shock, you will either need a 3" shock eyelet extension to clear cv's (if you have 4wd) or no extension.
Thx, that helps a lot, any preference on the coilovers?....spring rates?
 

Chevy1925

don't know sh!t about IFS
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Oct 21, 2009
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Your choice on coilovers. Rates vary on shock, how you set the frame mount and vehicle weight.
 

scott_willerscheidt

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Jan 30, 2019
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gig harbor wa.
Not sure if you're going solid axle or not .If so




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