Doubters can say what they want about the centuries old leaf spring rear suspension configuration found under muscle era Mopars,
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We encountered this problem when we attempted to mount 10-inch slicks on our altered wheelbase ’63 Dart and found a solution in the pages of the Mopar Performance catalog. Though this subject vehicle has had its rear axle pushed forward 12-inches, its rear floor pan and suspension remain stock so the techniques shown here are still applicable to any Mopar A, B, C or E-body. Watch as Funny Car Farm major domo, Dale Snoke, relocates the Dart’s springs to make way for a set of groovy vintage drag slicks.
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| Though most Mopars are capable of swallowing up pretty big rear meats, our choice of Radir 10.00-15 square tread retro slicks (www.radirwheels.com) and 15x7 Cragar S/S wheels (3-5/8 back spacing) create this unfortunate condition. Though some would settle for wheel spacers, they usually cause wheel lip interference and are a weak link if the car is really hooking. The solution is to relocate the leaf springs inboard, beneath the frame rails. | Here’s a shot of the stock rear leaf spring position with the slicks in place. Notice how the leaf springs are mounted in parallel with the frame rails. The Dart’s puny 7 1/4 rear axle has the torque capacity of a wet beach towel and will soon be replaced by an 8 ¾. It is used here solely for mock-up purposes. |
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| The Mopar Performance leaf spring re-location kit (p.n. P4876558AB) sells for around $160.00 and includes everything you see here plus a detailed instruction sheet. | After supporting the body on secure jack stands, the entire rear suspension must be removed for frame access. |
