99_orange_SS

iTrader: (20)

An opinion is simply that, not fact. 5th gen's are terrible at handling, just way to heavy. Considering it cost me less than half of what it would to put in a 9" and this gives me far better handling characteristics, I truly don't see where you are getting "BAD" from. If you'd like to know the handling benefits in detail then just ask. I can understand it may not be the right choice for you or something that you wouldn't want, but that is your opinion and doesn't make it a fact as your trying to portray. Lets stick to the relevance of the post and take pointless remarks elsewhere.


To answer firebird99, simply put it doesn't make its sound like a vette. The unique sound of a vette is due to the header shape, pipe routing, and crossover pipe (H or X) used in the line.

v7guy

iTrader: (1)

It's nice to see someone took the time to make a well thought out post with the pertinent info and all the links, there's a few there I hasn't seen before. As much as this topic comes up I'm surprised it's not made a sticky.
A job well done sir, thanks for your time.

lees02WS6

iTrader: (5)

Borrowed the neighbor's GoPro. Under car videos

For the sake of comparison here's a Ford S197 Mustang which, with its 3 link and panhard bar, has a rear suspension that is substantially similar to a 3rd/4th gen Camaro or Firebird (which has a torque arm for it's third link).

LS1HIGHLIFE

iTrader: (8)

Thats freekin cool dude....

kyoytey1693

iTrader: (7)

That was awesome!

ssjason232

iTrader: (14)

wow. if that is not a sticky i dont know what is. could be one of the better threads written ever on tech.

OP, is that your TA you took the you tube video with. if so who did your swap and how is it for you?

ls2pontiac

iTrader: (1)

Love it, if only it were cheaper I would do it in a heartbeat. I bet that car rides very well. Also, never really thought about how much the dampers are doing just driving on what seems like "smooth" roads, now I see why shocks are worn out at 50,000 miles.

Streetlegal?

iTrader: (25)

That's an awesome video. Never would have thought of mounting a go-pro like that.

kyoytey1693

iTrader: (7)

Yeah I would do it in a heartbeat too if it were cheaper or simpler. I sure would love to go for a ride in one to see what it's like.

maxgee

iTrader: (5)

Lee what did that run you?

banshe5

iTrader: (1)

Awesome!!! I've wanted to do that with my car as well. I also want to mount one near the shocks so you can watch the trailing arms move. It's always nice to see everyone still has interest in the IRS swap.

lees02WS6

iTrader: (5)

To all the questioners, I have a spreadsheet somewhere down to the penny of what i spent and what I spent it on. I will get the amounts.

I'll say this too, Jay Cutshaw was instrumental in getting this project done. Input from Orange_99_SS, Wilson Muscle Cars, and 1MeanZ was also used. I spent eight years researching this, and I'm glad Jay went first.

If you can't weld, get Jay's shop to install it.

lees02WS6

iTrader: (5)

It's firm, but smooth. It's still a lowered car on 275's and 315's with Koni's, so it's not a caddy. The ride is definitely the part I like the most. Hit a pot hole and the whole thing doesn't go wild on you. This about sums it up for me:



It doesn't squeak or rattle, except for the driver's side bump stop which I made too long (the bump stops are on the shock shafts). I'll fix that this weekend.

lees02WS6

iTrader: (5)

I want to preface this by saying you could do it for a lot less, I powder coated everything, replaced everything that was worn, bought a Dana 44 (as opposed to the Dana 36) and had it rebuilt. I also had the wheels rehooped instead of using adapters, and bought Koni DA's and had them revalved by True Choice.

Total in parts: $7,219.95

tbird31

iTrader: (22)

Lee, just so you know, Jay finally joing LS1tech and that's him...banshe5. haha

I just got off the phone with him and he told me to check this thread out. I was like a kid watching that video. I'm a mechanical engineering student myself and I love watching all of the suspension dynamics and articulations. I must say Jay's car is a dream to drive and such a wonder in the corners. I'm glad you've made this thread and hope at some point it can be stickied for anyone that has questions.

lees02WS6

iTrader: (5)

Yup, I know, and I know you work with him. I'm with you, I like to watch the suspension movement. I'll draw out the travel of different suspension components with a bow compass, ruler, and protractor just because I'm curious.

I originally planned a much bigger thread with a lot more pictures, but 1meanz stole that thunder with his GMHTP article, and his thread on thirdgen.org, so I just linked to his.

Orange_99_SS helped me with this thread.

HoLLo

iTrader: (17)

Badass thread! Would be cool as hell to have an IRS, but I'll take my Moser 9" for now

99_orange_SS

iTrader: (20)

Ya you can definitely do it for a lot less. I think I spent a total of $1,500. overall. With that said I did all the work myself, fabricated everything, and was at the right place at the right time for parts. I would say the 7K estimate is about perfect for doing this project. Lee has done a great job with this thread and getting all the information we have accumulated out in the open!

libertyforall1776

iTrader: (2)

A neat addition to this thread would be a compare and contrast of a Watts Link vs IRS Camaro...

99_orange_SS

iTrader: (20)

A Watt's link only allows for a solid axle to perform in a way it never has. Watt's will never be able to perform like IRS's, but it would be interesting to see how close it is in comparison with the standard solid axle suspension with the trailing arms being relocated.