Stock 4x4 rear springs and traction question...

[Black P-38]

For you guys with moderate power levels and 4x4 Blazers...

I'm thinking of keeping the stock rear springs 'cause I like the way my Blazer rides and corners. I will be dropping the rear, (with blocks), about 2 or 3 inches and running about a 27" to 28" tire with maybe an 8" contact patch.

My question is, with 220 to 300 hp or so, are you guys with posi rears having traction, spring wrap or wheel hop issues? Of course I mean in 2wd mode, since I'll be removing the front drive pieces from my truck.

If you are having issues can you also tell me your gear ratio and under what conditions you experience the problem? I'm trying to decide if I can get by without traction devices.

I was thinking about building a pair of knock-off C-tracs but if I can avoid the trouble and the added weight I'd be a happier guy.

Thanks for your help!
Mike

[jstblz]

3.08, Auburn LSD, Vortec 5.7l

I have no issues on launch or sharp turns. Really the best bet is to go for the power and build the traction device if needed. The extra weight isn't worth it if it doesn't do anything.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKQ3BrntDtw
You can see me launch at :38 and hit the road course at 1:12 (tire were hot by then)

[Black P-38]

Hey thanks! Just the kind of info and advice I'm lookin' for, great vid too!
I'm hoping to make a little corner carver outta my '85 too...

Those 3.08 gears can be a little tall depending on tire diameter, what size rear tire are you running?

I appreciate the help!
Mike

[jstblz]

26.04"

[Black P-38]

Okay, based on my Blazer with 3.73 rear gearing I'd have to run about a 31.5" dia tire to equal your 3.08 with a 26.04... pretty tall but I bet you cruise at some low rpm.

Thanks,
Mike

[Crew Cab Sonoma]

you could try leafspring clamps. mounted on the rear of the leafs,
they eliminate hop on all but the most aggressive track launches.

without them, my truck would hop violently on all but the softest
of lauches...

installed properly, they wont impact ride quality.
heres an old thread of mine, with plenty of details and
discussion on them...

http://www.s10forum.com/forum/f178/c...r-15-a-274311/

adding those lowering blocks will likely make hop much more likely,
and difficult to control though..

[Black P-38]

Hey! I checked out that link and it sounds like I'll be trying some clamps when I get the V8 installed. Makes total sense, sometimes the simplest ideas are the most effective, especially for the time/money invested.

I wish the lowering blocks weren't a potential negative for traction, I was hoping to level this thing out a bit... oh well, I'm beginning to get used to the look. Although, when I stand back and look at it from a distance I keep picturing it with a pair of colorful short boards strapped to the luggage rack... and I don't even surf... please, no woody jokes!

Thanks,
Mike

[jstblz]

cruising down the high way I may be at 1500-1900. Idle is 700 rpm

haha yeah some girl called my blaze a station wagon and I haven't talked to her since that day haha.

[Black P-38]

Yeah that's some low cruise rpm alright, not much more than a fast idle.

Speaking of low... I can't believe that chick called it a station wagon... I can't blame you for not talkin' to her, she obviously doesn't get it!!!

Mike