Cantilever Style suspension???

[bathtub.toaster]

Working on a 5 speed 97 with a 2.3. I've flipped the axle on top of the leaf springs to lower it and I'm going to change out the shocks with some coilovers to help with ride quality and what not. But I've been thinking, is it possible to do an almost IRS style cantilever setup? I've kind of rough sketched the idea here. I don't know squat about suspension, but I do think it would interesting since I haven't seen anyone do one like this before. Any suggestions, tips?

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

What is the purpose? It adds complexity and I dont see any pros. It protrudes into the box space from what I see. Adds weight.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

It isn't IRS but skip to about 11:15

Or watch the whole thing because it is awesome.

 

[bathtub.toaster]

What is the purpose? It adds complexity and I dont see any pros. It protrudes into the box space from what I see. Adds weight.

Just to see if it's possible honestly. I like the concept of cantilever suspensions and I think the extra weight would be beneficial for a drift/autocross build. (Better weight distribution I would assume) As far as protruding into the box space, what exactly do you mean by that. Do you mean the bed of the truck?

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

Yes, the bed of the truck.
If you're building for autocross I would look at putting in a true IRS, perhaps out of an escape or something.
Drifting I think you would want the ass end as light as possible so the rear can kick out easier. But I dont do either so maybe I'm wrong.

 

[bathtub.toaster]

Yes, the bed of the truck.
If you're building for autocross I would look at putting in a true IRS, perhaps out of an escape or something.
Drifting I think you would want the ass end as light as possible so the rear can kick out easier. But I dont do either so maybe I'm wrong.

Yeah, it's hard to beat a reliable IRS setup. But as far as drifting, that's all about weight distribution. Trying to drift a front heavy vehicle will result in understeer, making it harder to maintain the drift.
I'm probably gonna play around with the shapes on Autodesk and see what I can come up with cause even though I know a design like this is rather impractical, I still think it would look sick asf.

 

[bathtub.toaster]

It isn't IRS but skip to about 11:15

Or watch the whole thing because it is awesome.

That's cool, I love those crazy builds. I'm going for a lowered street build myself, just playing around with the idea of alternate suspension setups.

 

[bobbywalter]

there were lots of cantilever rangers in the 90s low rider scene.


specifically setup the other way to hide it and maximize bed space.

 

[bobbywalter]

Ford 83-12 Ranger Truck - Bolt-On 4-Link Cantilever Suspension System

KP Components Ranger Bolt on Wishbone 4 Link & Cantilever Package Includes, Gas Tank Crossmember. Must Specify Year and Rear End 7.5 or 8.8. NOTE: To determine rear axle housing size measure the center distance between 2 of the lower cover bolts 7-1/2" housing = 2.97 8.8" housing = 3.18This...

illusivefab.com

 

[bobbywalter]

very very cost effective at that.