GM A-Body Lowering Guide
Lowering your 1964-1972 GM A-Body
Lowering your A-Body classic not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also improves its handling and overall performance. Whether you own a Chevrolet Chevelle, a Pontiac GTO, an Oldsmobile Cutlass, or a Buick Skylark from the 1964-1972 era, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps and considerations for achieving the perfect lowered stance.
From understanding the basics of suspension components to exploring the pros and cons of different lowering methods, we will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or a novice looking to enhance your ride, our A-Body Lowering Guide is designed to help you achieve the perfect balance of style and functionality.
Let’s dive into the topic of A-Body lowering and transform your classic muscle car into a head-turning, road-hugging masterpiece.
Not sure what height you want?
Lowering Options
Linear Springs
Coilovers
A-Body Linear Springs vs Coilover Setups
The table below compares the key aspects of linear springs and coilover setups for the 1964-1972 A-Body platform, highlighting the pros and cons of each option. This comparison will help you understand the differences and make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
| Linear Springs | Coilover Setup | |
|---|---|---|
| Simplicity | Simple design, fewer components to fail | More complex but integrated design |
| Cost | Generally cheaper upfront | More expensive initially |
| Installation | Easier to install, often a direct replacement | May require modifications to fit |
| Maintenance | Lower maintenance requirements | Higher maintenance, more parts to service |
| Ride Comfort | Typically provides a smoother ride | Adjustable for ride comfort but can be harsher |
| Load Handling | Consistent performance under load | Adjustable for varying loads |
| Performance | Good for general driving and mild performance | Superior handling and performance tuning capabilities |
| Adjustability | Limited to no adjustability | Fully adjustable ride height and damping |
| Weight | Heavier compared to coilovers | Lighter, reducing unsprung weight |
UMI Performance A-Body Linear Springs
At UMI, we specialize in high-performance springs. Designed with a top Sprint Cup chassis engineer, our springs use premium 5160 CrSi wire for the front and 9254 CrSi wire for the rear, offering linear rates of 530 lb/in and 130 lb/in respectively. This ensures consistent handling, reduced body roll, and eliminates the "floating" feel in A-body vehicles.
Finished with a durable black powder coat and proudly made in the USA, UMI springs are the benchmark in muscle car suspension. Experience superior performance with UMI.
A-Body Front 2" Drop Spindles vs Lowering Springs
2" Drop Spindles
2" Lowering Springs
How to Choose Drop Spindles or Lowering Springs
UMI's 2" lowering springs are a great way to achieve the lowered look with minimal cost. We use them in our popular Stage 2 kits for a no fuss way to achieve a great look and great handling. Tall drop spindles are another way to achieve the 2" lowered look but with a bit more effort. Our tall drop spindles require 4056-1 a-arms to achieve proper camber settings and are generally used on high performance cornering type cars, or by those customer who want to pair them with lowering springs to achieve more than 2 inches of drop.
2" Drop Spindle Benefits
- Lowers the vehicle 2" while maintaining full suspension travel
- Maintains factory ride quality
- Improves camber gain which improves cornering in performance applications
- Uses factory length shocks
2" Lowering Springs Benefits
- Cost effective way to lower the car without additional parts
- UMI springs feature touring rates which are comfortable but performance oriented
- Still uses factory length shocks
- Places upper a-arm over center to improve camber response especially when paired with UMI 4033-1 a-arms
| 2" Drop Spindle | 2" Front Lowering Spring | |
|---|---|---|
| Maintained Suspension Geometry | Lowers the vehicle 2" while maintaining full suspension travel | Can alter suspension geometry, potentially causing handling issues and increased tire wear. |
| Ride Quality | Maintains factory ride quality | Often results in a stiffer ride due to shorter and possibly stiffer springs. |
| Alignment Options | Improves camber gain which improves cornering in performance applications | Can lead to alignment issues that are harder to correct. |
| Suspension Components | Uses factory length shocks | May increase stress on suspension components due to altered geometry. |
| Consistent Performance | Provides a consistent drop in height without affecting the spring rate. | Lowering springs can vary in performance depending on the spring rate. |
| Cost-Effectiveness | Generally more expensive upfront. | More affordable and cost-effective solution. |
| Simplicity | May require more extensive modifications for installation. | Simpler to install compared to drop spindles. |
| Availability | Available but with fewer options compared to lowering springs. | Widely available with various spring rates to suit different driving preferences. |
Using a A-Body 2" Drop Spindle with a Front Coilover Kit
Using a A-Body 2" drop spindle in conjunction with a front coilover kit can significantly enhance a vehicle's performance and stance. This combination allows for a lower ride height which improves handling dynamics by lowering the center of gravity. Additionally, the coilover kit enables adjustable ride quality, making it easier to tune the suspension for various driving conditions. Together, these components provide an effective way to achieve a sporty aesthetic while maintaining or even improving the vehicle's functionality on the road.
910-3500B – 1964-1972 GM A-Body Drop Spindles, Tall, Speedway Motors
SKU:
910-3500B
In stock
$399.99
