Lengthening A-arms

[JimSwinford]

Hi All: I'm an Architectual engineer and my favorite hobby is modifing an 2000 S-10 "Xtreme". So far I've replaced the engine with a LS-1, and upgraded about everything. However I've run into something that is basically over my head :-0. I love the C5 wheel design and presently have them mounted on the truck with wheel spacers. Not safe, I know. It got me to thinking "How do I? 1. Either lenghthen my A-arms approx 2 1/2 in. 2. Make a safer spacer or 3. I'm open to any advise from someone who knows better....Thanks, Jim

 

[mishar]

You want to use wheels with completely wrong offset. Longer A-arms could be safely manufactured but that would change geometry and still leave you with spacers at the back and that big spacers are definitely not good. I think those are too extensive modifications just for looks.

 

[GregLocock]

It would be possible to properly engineer a better spacer system, but you are still left with the problem that you have overloaded the stub axle/wheel bearing system, if you move the centreline of the tire.

Lengthening the A arms is a nicer option, but would ned a proper suspension design - not rocket science, but not trivial.







Cheers

Greg Locock

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips.

 

[mishar]

That suspension was designed around 0 (or close) offset wheels. Using 55 offset wheels is only possible with spacers of around 55 mm. There are two problems with that: safety and additional weight.

By lengthening A-arms suspension geometry will be totally off. For the beginning the scrub radius would be 55 mm off.

 

[GregLocock]

True, but given the range of scrub radii seen over the years I'm not convinced that that kills the idea.

Cheers

Greg Locock

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips.

 

[NormPeterson]

Why not start with the C5 knuckles and work up your control arms to suit them? As an alternative, an acquaintance of mine offers a 'kit' that puts C5 or at least C5-based componentry under the '78 - '87 G-bodies (provided, that 17" wheels are used, IIRC) that *might* to some extent translate over to a 2WD S-10. Google 'SCandC'.

Norm

 

[mishar]

Mine concerns are more about killing driver and his passengers than idea.

Using C5 knuckles would be right way to go, but that fits exactly under “to extensive modifications just for looks”.

 

[JimSwinford]

Ah mishar, have you no soul? Modifications for looks are one of the backbones of Hot Rodding. Yes I am concerned about killing driver(me!!!) and passengers, Thats why I started this thread, to get input from people more knowledgable than I. I know the GM "G" body uses basically the same suspension as the S-10. I was just hoping not to re-engineer the whole truck just for the wheels. The idea of using the C5 spindle to start is good. I also had in the back of my mind to have a much better handling (AND safer) vehicle while doing it....Jim

 

[JimSwinford]

NormPeterson, you are a lifsaver! I talked to SCandC and have come up with THREE excellant ideas. 1. The spacers will work but only by using a hub concentric type spacer. Fred Groke (of Hemi cuda fame) will make a pair for just 230 usd (apparently they'll work for a 1000 HP dragster). and/or 2. SCandC has a complete front end (hub to hub) for about 2,700 usd already made up for G bodies(S10 and Gs are the same everything) or 3. By using the spacers and a pair of G body A-frames (610 USD). I can have a great handling truck for under a grand USD...Thanks for the suggestion, Jim

 

[mishar]

You got mi there! I did more of those thinks than you can imagine, but I hoped that some rational thinking might help you. As a matter of fact it seams it did. At least you are not redesigning whole front end.

Speaking about soul, have you ever thought about independent suspension at the back. With Corvette’s gearbox there weight distribution would be better…

 

[JimSwinford]

I thought about putting a Corvette rear in the S10, Mishar, BUT money is an object here. I know I'll never get 1/2 of what I put in this vehicle back and it is just a hobby after all! I'm just having fun. So far I've put in a 2000 LS1, a high performance 4L60E trans, LE1 brakes on front (12"), and a 3.73 traction lock Ford Explorer 8.8 rear. Ford has it all over GM when it comes to rear ends (no smart remarks here). Believe it or not the Exploerer rear just bolts up with very minor mods like fabbing lines. I took the entire interior (all leather) from a Olds Bravada. The wheels were my biggest concern. Thanks to all for the suggestions.....Jim