Tech Time: 1965-79 F-100 | QA1 Front Suspension Install

QA1, THE ALPHANUMERIC CODE FOR ONE OF the industry’s top suspension, rod ends, spherical bearings and shock absorber companies, was founded in 1993 by Jim Jordan in Lakeville, Minnesota.

When you think QA1, you think high quality, and that makes perfect sense as quality is the top priority in everything the company does. Its products are designed, built and tested to ensure consistent quality, ultimate reliability and unbeatable performance.

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When QA1 started to develop the suspension for our beloved Ford F-100 trucks, the company did it the right way, from the ground up—fitting the suspension to the truck instead of fitting the truck to a suspension. Engineers designed the kit around the factory wheel wells and firewall, making certain each and every part fit just right for both form and function. You can now get wheels with some good offset to fill the gaps properly, and a wide variety of brake system upgrades are available.

Ditch that outdated twin I-beam front suspension. Before you head to the junkyard to find a random “front-clip,” you definitely should consider this well-engineered example of a dialed-in IFS offering both performance and comfort that’s properly engineered to make your truck handle like a modern truck while giving you the ride height adjustability so you can dial in the perfect stance. This setup also makes motor swaps a breeze as they have interchangeable engine mounts from FE, Windsor, Mod/Coyote and even LS (we all know one or two of those guys).

Here’s a good look at the engineering QA1 F-100 front suspension.

Some key points for this QA1 front setup:
• 3.75 inches narrower than a Crown Vic, so fitment of larger wheels and tires is not an issue
• 3- to 7-inch drop (3- to 5-inch with standard height style spindles, 5- to 7-inch with 2-inch drop spindles)
• 150+ pounds lighter than stock suspension
• Bolt-in tubular design for ease of installation and strength
• Adjustable coilover shocks to set the ride height and ride quality
• Rack-and-pinion steering

This article is not a step-by-step installation but rather a highlight of the QA1 front suspension as the guys at QA1 have a great instruction manual. (Go check it out by visiting www.QA1.net/ F100)

[divider]SOURCES[/divider]

QA1
800-721-7761
www.QA1.net

The pallet of QA1 goodness delivered to Evolutionary Rides and posted up next to Oscar the guinea pig. Although this is no experiment because we know exactly what kind of quality and performance we can expect to see when Oscar hits the road again!

To make it easy since our project still has a way to go, we separated the body from the rolling chassis.

Our stock rolling chassis was just begging for some upgrades!

Joey at Evolutionary Rides wasted no time and got to work removing the factory front suspension.

TIP: Before removing the factory suspension and cutting anything, we tacked in a few braces to keep everything square.

There were a whole lot of rivets that needed to be cut. We also cut out and removed some old crossmembers and parts from the chassis to help clean everything up.

They braced Oscar’s bare frame and removed all of the suspension and extra crossmembers that wouldn’t be used. (Then we actually sent our chassis to be media blasted since it had seen quite a bit of weathering through the years.)

Next, they marked and drilled the new holes for the QA1 supplied lower crossmember to go into place.

The QA1 lower crossmember was installed following the provided guides and instruction manual. (Make sure to use the manual and contact tech support for any questions as the QA1 staff is full of seasoned veterans who are able to help with anything you may run into along the way.)

A notch is marked and cut out for the upper crossmember to go into place.

Next up, the upper crossmember and controls arms and coilovers were installed.

Joey double checked everything and installed the spindle. (Note: As we’re a ways off on buttoning up this build before she sees the road again, everything is only hand tightened and will be properly torqued to spec as we get closer to final installation).

Quite an improvement over that ol’ rusty and archaic twin I-beam setup, eh?

The QA1 tie rods and power rack were bolted up next.

The supplied front sway bar is installed and we get to stand back and take in this gorgeous IFS setup in all its glory from every angle.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How are the coil-over shocks in the kit constructed?

Understanding the Construction of Coil-Over Shocks Included in the Kit

The coil-over shocks in this kit are engineered for optimal performance and ease of customization. Below are the key construction features:

Fully Threaded Shock Body

Adjustable Ride Height: The shocks feature a fully threaded body, enabling you to precisely adjust the ride height by up to two inches. This flexibility allows for an ideal stance and precise weight balance for enhanced handling.

Adjustment Knobs for Compression and Rebound

Customizable Performance: Each shock is equipped with easy-to-use adjustment knobs. A simple twist lets you fine-tune the compression and rebound settings to match your preferred ride quality and handling characteristics.

High-Quality Materials

Durable Construction: Built with high-strength materials, these shocks are designed to withstand rigorous use while providing long-lasting durability.

Tuning Flexibility

Ideal for Various Driving Conditions: Whether you’re on a smooth highway or a challenging track, the adjustable settings offer the flexibility to adapt and optimize performance accordingly.

This comprehensive construction not only ensures durability but also provides a tailored driving experience, aligning perfectly with your specific needs.

What are the benefits of the lightweight springs used in the coilover kit?

Why Choose Lightweight Springs for Your Coilover Kit?

Enhanced Suspension Performance

Lightweight springs drastically improve suspension performance by minimizing unsprung weight. Their efficient design allows for quicker response times, enhancing your vehicle’s handling and stability on the road.

Increased Travel

These springs feature fewer coils and smaller wire diameters, creating more space between each coil. This design promotes greater travel, providing a smoother ride and better adaptability to various driving conditions.

Optimized Weight Reduction

Reducing the overall weight of your suspension system, lightweight springs aid in lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity. This results in improved cornering, braking, and acceleration, making your drive more enjoyable and controlled.

High-Quality Construction

Manufactured in the USA, these springs ensure durability and reliable performance. Their superior craftsmanship stands up to rigorous driving conditions, offering prolonged service life and sustained effectiveness.

Key Benefits at a Glance:

Faster Response: Reduced unsprung weight for quicker suspension reactions.
Greater Travel: More distance between coils for enhanced adaptability.
Weight Reduction: Lower overall vehicle weight for better dynamics.
Durability: American-made for long-lasting performance.

What types of driving and racing applications have tested the coilover kit successfully?

Proven Applications for Coilover Kits

Coilover kits have been rigorously tested and proven across a variety of driving and racing scenarios. Here’s a breakdown of where these kits have demonstrated their reliability and performance:

Drag Racing: Ideal for straight-line speed and quick acceleration, coilover kits enhance stability and control.
Street Performance: Offering a blend of comfort and agility, these kits cater to daily driving needs while boosting handling.
Autocross: In events that demand sharp turns and rapid maneuvers, coilover kits provide the necessary precision and responsiveness.
Road Racing: For sustained high-speed performance on complex tracks, these kits ensure consistent handling and durability.
Street Rods: Enthusiasts looking to upgrade vintage or custom cars find these kits perfect for improved ride quality and performance.

In summary, coilover kits are versatile and have been successfully tested in various competitive and everyday driving contexts, guaranteeing enhanced performance across the board.

How are the coil-over shocks adjusted for ride height and handling?

“Adjustable coilover shocks to set the ride height and ride quality”

Looking for more control over your vehicle’s stance and handling? These adjustable coilover shocks have you covered. The fully threaded body allows for precise ride height adjustments up to two inches, letting you achieve the perfect stance or finely tune the weight balance for superior handling.

A simple twist of the adjustment knob dials in both compression and rebound, ensuring your ride is as smooth or responsive as you need it to be. Easy-to-use knobs make these adjustments straightforward, allowing you to customize the ride quality and handling to match your driving style. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or taking tight corners on a track, these shocks offer the flexibility you need for an optimal driving experience.

How easy is it to install the coilover kit?

“Bolt-in tubular design for ease of installation and strength.”

“Easy, bolt-in installation ensures that even those with limited mechanical experience can confidently complete the process.”

“The QA1 lower crossmember was installed following the provided guides and instruction manual.”

(Make sure to use the manual and contact tech support for any questions as the QA1 staff is full of seasoned veterans who are able to help with anything you may run into along the way.)

“Joey double-checked everything and installed the spindle. (Note: As we’re a ways off on buttoning up this build before she sees the road again, everything is only hand tightened and will be properly torqued to spec as we get closer to final installation).”

This straightforward, user-friendly approach ensures that your installation experience is as smooth as possible, allowing you to focus more on enjoying the performance benefits of your new coilover kit.

How much ride height adjustment does the coilover kit provide?

Adjustable coilover shocks to set the ride height and ride quality, offering up to 2″ of ride height adjustment.

What is the maximum change in ride height?

The maximum change in ride height is up to 2 inches.

How much ride height adjustment does the coilover kit provide?

The coilover kit provides ride height adjustment.

In what applications can the coilover kit be used?

“This setup also makes motor swaps a breeze as they have interchangeable engine mounts from FE, Windsor, Mod/Coyote and even LS (we all know one or two of those guys). Used in drag racing, street performance, autocross, road racing, and street rod applications, this coilover kit delivers versatility and performance across a wide range of automotive activities.