Good afternoon,
I have a 1945 Chevy Pickup which I acquired recently. The truck is listing to the left side like a boat with a leak. I would guess 1.5 - 2.5 inches more than the right-side elevation. The truck is close to original but does have some modification. The suspension has an original configuration i.e. leaf springs, single-action shocks, etc. The engine has been upgraded to a 235 and it’s running slightly larger tires on original sized rims. The truck does no towing and rarely will be used to move anything heavy.
I was told by the seller that the truck will need new shocks and now I suspect new suspension work as well. So now I find myself with a conundrum. Do I keep it close to original or consider other options due to the cost involve. I priced rear springs, shackles, U-bolts, pins, etc. from Carter’s. I came up with nearly $1,300 in parts alone. Knowing I will also have to do the front as well… I’m now wondering if I should consider a different configuration such as air-ride suspension. I have space under the truck bed for the compressors and set up.
Problem is I know very little about air-ride set ups and was hoping someone might be able to shed some light for me. Can the original single-action shocks be replaced with airbags easily or is fabrication / welding involved? If I go to airbags, would I still need to replace the springs or can I continue to use what’s on the truck?
I appreciate any thoughts as this is one of those areas where I don’t know what I don’t know. Thanks in advance for the help.
Cheers,
Carlos
