I recently purchased a set of '90 Ford Aerostar springs to lower my '58 Ford Custom 300. I noticed a pretty big differnece in the overall height of the new springs compared to the old springs. Do I need to use shorter shocks or will the stock shocks work?

Thanks in advance

58 Ford Custom 300 - San Pedro, CA (So-Cal)

If all you did was change springs then no you don't have to (considering they are in good shape). You will have the same amount of travel with the shorter springs. If you do decide to get new shocks may I suggest KYB Gas-a just all around. They improved the both the ride and stability of my '55.

BOB

Well, I was more worried about the length of the shock. Since the springs are shorter, should'nt the shocks be too?

58 Ford Custom 300 - San Pedro, CA (So-Cal)

No, because you didn't change the amount of swing of the A arms. And the stops are still located in the same place.

BOB

Thanks Bob for the info

58 Ford Custom 300 - San Pedro, CA (So-Cal)

how about some before/after pics when you complete the install?

I have a 57 Fairland that I am considering doing the same treatment to...

thanks, Mark

"God Bless Texas"location: Houston,TX

No problem Mark. The only problem is it's going to be a while before I finish. I'm redoing the whole front end, not just the springs. I'm going to install all new bushings, tie rods, shocks, etc.

Here's the before pic:

And here is how it sits now:

It's gettin there though. I'll post the after as soon as there available.

58 Ford Custom 300 - San Pedro, CA (So-Cal)

I've got a post down in stuff that fits on these springs in my 'bird.  They actually raised my car slightly, but the old springs might have been cut.  I needed more shock that I had, and even with a stiffer replacement I'm still not dialed in.  When I get the car to it's final hieght, I'll measure for the shocks, but I expect them to be about the same.  Not sure how the wieght difference will affect a full size car, or what the changes in the a frames is in 58.

miker
55 bird, 32 cabrio F code
Kent, WA
Tucson, AZ

If somebody wants find shocks for custom setups, this might be helpful.



http://www.monroe.com/assets/downloads/english/08_MountingLengthSheet.pdf


Hyvinkää, FI

Here's that after pic that I promised regarding the Aerostar springs in a full size '58.

Before:

After:

Seems like it only lowered it a couple of inches. I still have to install some front end parts like the bumper,hood, etc. which may make it a little lower. Also I've heard people say the springs should settle in after a while. Is this true? May need to cut them a little

58 Ford Custom 300 - San Pedro, CA (So-Cal)