Z frame with Hairpins

[The Rookie]

Ok, so I have taken a lot of you advise, bought the suggested books and read the threads. Here is my question: I am using a 1930 Chevrolet frame with a 1970 Ford nine inch, I would like to use rear hairpins with the 9. I read the thread where you’all were talking about how the longer the radius rod the better, any suggestions on how long of arms to use with my frame? Can I “mock up” the frame now before I buy the rods? I already learned to have the tire size from one of the threads, but how much of a gap should I have between the Z and the top of the 9? The only thing I have done so far is cut the rear of the frame off about 12in from the rear of the cab, leaving the cross member intact. I would like to finish the rear Z frame before I buy the Hairpins/Ladders, I will be using 2x4 steel. Suggestions?

 

[Ratcrazy]

Post pictures of your build. Would make it easier to answer questions if we could see what you are doing. Good luck with your build.

 

[The Rookie]

Pic

Ok, here is a picture

 

[The Rookie]

this is a picture of what I want I would like to do

 

[RPM]

That looks fine. I would put a stiffener in those radius rods. We have seen quite a few of those bend. Some so bad it pulled the slip yoke out of the tranny.

 

[72corv3tt3]

I already learned to have the tire size from one of the threads, but how much of a gap should I have between the Z and the top of the 9?

All you really need is clearance for travel. Travel will basically depend on spring rate, but 3 or 4 inches should be enough. Unless you are going to run a super soft spring rate or have an extremely heavy car for some odd reason.

 

[wtfdoc]

I am subscribing as I am at the same point with my 29 Chevy