I bought this 07 V6 truck about a year ago, with intent to make it different to some extent.
Plans are for a complete suspension change, coil overs, 4-link and a watts link.
Almost done with the suspension.
Motor will be a Dart Little M 434 backed by a Tremec TKO 600 5pd. Ready to test fire the engine on my run stand. This motor and trans were in my previous car, so it's a proven combo. Fresh set of heads, pistons, etc. Project has been going slower than I'd like, but I'll get there.
QA1 Coil overs.

Watts Link



Dart 434

Custom gauge panel with Holley gauges.

 

Look forward to seeing more.

 

Got the coil overs done today. Had to make the top bracket.
Cycled the suspension all is good.
Break it down for final welding and get everything painted.

 

I had a watts link in my Camaro and it was crazy what a difference that made in the handling. It felt almost like an IRS sometimes and it was very locked in during turns. You're going to love it.

 

Made some progress this weekend. went for a test ride too. All is working well.

 

Got the bed on.
Need to experiment with the settings on the rear.
Bottoms out hits the bump stop, trying to avoid doing a notch.
The stance is great but, I need to raise it up some to check if I can get the ride correct with spring adjustment, shock position and valve adjustments.
If I need to notch the frame at least it will be done after all else has been tested. I'm using a 200lb spring single adjustable shock. As you see it now, the spring is preload compressed 1" with adjuster collar. Anybody have experience with this type of set-up?

 

Short clip of the motor running on the test stand. Throttle response is crisp.

 

Adjusted the ride height one notch on the lower shock mount to correct hitting the bump stop, set the dampening to #4 ride quality is pretty good now. Has a 1" rake to it now that's where it's gonna stay.

 

Liking it, bet this is going to be blast.

 

Made more progress, got the mock up block in and fabricated a motor mount for the driver side. Passenger side uses a S10 V8 swap adapter plate. I was unable to use it on the driver side, the header would hit the adapter plate and the stock rubber mount. The big challenge was finding a set of headers. The choices were slim once I selected square port tube, found these Headman Headers for the Square body trucks. Everything clears now, no dimpling anything. I'm happy that I was able to make everything bolt in. Mock up block comes out this weekend. Prep the engine bay and hope to have the 434 in there soon, waiting on the hydraulic throw out bearing.




Yes, I have to get a shorter bolt. LOL