Flip quad shocks

Daryl · Mar 14, 2021

So I’m going to flip the quad stocks to make as much room as possible for the 315’s. But when taking a look at the rear suspension (all new+ Eibach) I’m thinking I may as well replace the 25-year old quad shocks! Duh!!
Any suggestions? Stock replacement? Or is there a certain brand that has performed better, given my setup?

Flade · Mar 15, 2021

I have been told that if you replace the control arms and springs with higher quality aftermarket pieces you no longer need the quads. What size rims are you running? I have 10.5 x 17s that I am planning on running with 315s. I went with Koni shocks. STR T. Shocks all around with Steeda lower springs.

ttocs · Mar 15, 2021

that is what I was always told, and what I did

Daryl · Mar 15, 2021

Flade said:
I have been told that if you replace the control arms and springs with higher quality aftermarket pieces you no longer need the quads. What size rims are you running? I have 10.5 x 17s that I am planning on running with 315s. I went with Koni shocks. STR T. Shocks all around with Steeda lower springs.

Hello Flade, and welcome!
Same here on the rear tires/wheels set up: 17x10.5 with 315/35’s. Nitto NT555 G2’s.

TrickVert · Mar 15, 2021

Some people with modified rear suspensions remove the quad shocks and have no problems, others have wheel hop and end up putting them back on. There are too many variables to say "just ditch them."

Gabriel 14039 is the correct replacement.

joemomma · Mar 15, 2021

I just flipped mine, didn't replace them when I installed new shocks/struts/springs. I'm sure they could use it. I could probably get away with ditching them honestly at near-stock power levels with 315s, it'll barely turn them over.

TrickVert · Mar 15, 2021

Anyone wanting more info on why they're there, and why you may still need them after modifying the suspension.

https://www.corral.net/threads/what-is-a-quad-shocks-purpose.317796/

Flade · Mar 15, 2021

Daryl said:
Hello Flade, and welcome!
Same here on the rear tires/wheels set up: 17x10.5 with 315/35’s. Nitto NT555 G2’s.

How do you like the Nitto’s? Living in FL, wet traction is critical.

Daryl · Mar 15, 2021

Flade said:
How do you like the Nitto’s? Living in FL, wet traction is critical.

Not much help here, sorry. I live in Southern California and even though we DO get rain (contrary to most people’s beliefs about Californians!), I haven’t had the Nitto’s out in the rain as yet. Sorry. Did you check their wet/dry rating?

joemomma · Mar 16, 2021

Daryl said:
Not much help here, sorry. I live in Southern California and even though we DO get rain (contrary to most people’s beliefs about Californians!), I haven’t had the Nitto’s out in the rain as yet. Sorry. Did you check their wet/dry rating?

Same, I tend to not get it out in the wet. I've been caught on damp roads once, but didn't push it at all so I can't really comment on wet traction.

Daryl · Mar 17, 2021

“Arby’s, we have the meats”!

Daryl · Mar 17, 2021

Top pic: 315 mounted on 10.5” FR500 wheel
Next pic: fitment shot, left (driver side) rear
Next: right rear 12.5” of contact patch!
Next: quick side shot before covering it back up
Last pic: quad shock has a good 1/2” clearance.

Keep in mind the motor is still not in yet so far is sitting higher than it will with the lump back in it.
Starting Monday, motor goes back in along with K-member brace, replacement quad shocks and all new engine and tranny mounts (rubber, all).

joemomma · Mar 18, 2021

Yes! Looking good man!

Daryl · Mar 18, 2021

Oh you guys are gonna LOVE this one..
Yesterday I commence with the removal, replacement and flipping of the quad shocks. And just like the ordeal with the caliper bolts, I can’t get the large, 21mm nut to budge. So I borrow my buddies torch again and make a separate trip to NAPA to buy a 21mm wrench. I soak the nuts/bolts overnight in PB Blaster and get after it today after work, around 1:30.
I’m cranking and smacking that freaking 21mm with everything I’ve got. Then I thought,”what if I wedge the 21 in and try ratcheting the 15mm bolt off from the onboard side? Worth a try, right?
Long story short: couple whacks and it busts loose. But the 21mm nut still doesn’t budge even after I back the bolt out all the way. And now e know why: the nut is factory welded onto the axle bracket!!

Sucker came off in a hurry after that. Put on the new one, cranked it down and replaced the wheel. Ditto on the other side! 10 minutes. Done. No torch. No stripping or bolt heads. Just a sweet, easy result (see pics)

joemomma · Mar 19, 2021

LOL. I think I went through the same thing when I did mine. I didn't remember having any difficulty until you mentioned it.

joe65 · Mar 19, 2021

i had to remove the quads when i went to coil overs and i went with MM lower control arms. No wheel hop or anything that i've noticed without them....and yes, the back tires on my mustang get worn a bit faster than the fronts....

Daryl · Mar 19, 2021

Seems to be enough discussion for and against. So for now I will run with them. At some point in the near future I’ll pull them and compare for myself. Cheers!