So I just picked up this 1999 Chevy RCSB 4.8 w/ 89K miles and looking at lowering kits (don't worry the huge tires are going away, just there to roll around on). I'm wanting to do 3/5 drop on it. The front I'm doing spindles and 1" drop springs. In the rear is my question. It has 1-2" drop shackles on it already set at 2" and is C-Notched already.

From these two options which would be the best for the rear and why? Also will I need pinon angle correction spacers?

A) flip kit and a 1" lift shackle

OR

B) Belltech 3" drop leaf and keep the 2" drop shackles?

People seem to not like the spring, but I'm not really sure why. This also gives me the option to raise it to a 2/4 drop really easy.

This isn't my my first GM truck, but first one dedicated as a toy. I have a 2013 CNG Bi-Fuel Tahoe and a 2011 Denali XL. Thanks for the help guys!

 

I'd go with a flip kit just to keep stock leafs. I think the drop leaf will ride worse and you won't be able to haul as much.

 

Think I'd need pinion shims?

 

Maybe.

You'll have to install all the parts and actually measure your pinion angle when it's all done. Then you'll know what size shim is needed.

When I did hangers and shackles on my 06, I needed 6 degree shims to correct it. On my 2012 with 3in rear drop I installed 2 degree shims and have no issues.

 

Thanks. Maybe a flip kit is the way to go. I'd think it would do the best at retaining decent pinion angles.

 

What spindle are you going with? I have the Beltech's and am very pleased with them!

I also trimmed the stock springs about a 1/4 turn and back is a flip kit with 2 inch drop shackles. It rides perfect on this setup. Sweet looking truck btw!

 

McGaughys is what I was planning, but I'm willing to change if needed. They were just $10 cheaper than

Thanks! It has the HD front and C5 door handles. Eventual goal is LQ4 w/ 400HP/400TQ and built 4L65e.

 

Another vote for the flip kit and a +1" shackle (if needed). Have you looked at doing coil overs in the front?

 

No but maybe I should. Who makes them and what are the preferred brands?

 

Coming from someone who has changed his front suspension 3x now,


Get the McG spindles and BT 1in drop spring. It will ride damn near stock without the bumpsteer BS of the BT spindles. I have BT street shocks on all 4 corners.

For the rear, look at the DJM flip kit. It allows you to adjust the pinion angle without needing shims. For 5in in the rear, you would do a flip kit and a 1in lift shackle. Or you could leave it at 6in.

I would suggest doing the notch. Your choice on what you use but the key part is supporting the frame in front of the wheel and after the wheel so you don't bend/break the frame when you cut.