Introduction: Lowered OBS Ford Extended Cab Trucks
Lowered OBS Ford extended cab trucks have surged in popularity among automotive enthusiasts, combining classic styling with modern performance and handling. The OBS, or Old Body Style, Ford trucks, produced from 1980 to 1997, are particularly favored for their robust construction, straightforward mechanicals, and timeless design. Lowering these trucks offers a unique blend of aesthetics and improved driving dynamics. This article delves into the intricacies of lowering an extended cab OBS Ford, covering everything from the benefits and considerations to the methods, components, and potential challenges involved.
The appeal of a lowered OBS Ford extends beyond mere aesthetics; it's about creating a vehicle that reflects individual style while enhancing performance. A lowered stance provides a more aggressive and sporty look, transforming the truck's appearance significantly. Beyond looks, lowering improves handling by lowering the center of gravity, which reduces body roll and enhances stability, especially during cornering. This results in a more responsive and engaging driving experience. However, the process requires careful planning and execution to maintain ride quality and avoid potential issues. Factors such as the intended use of the truck, budget constraints, and desired level of drop will influence the choice of lowering method and components. Understanding these considerations is crucial for achieving the desired outcome without compromising the vehicle's functionality or reliability. Proper installation and maintenance are also paramount to ensure safety and longevity of the modifications. With the right approach, a lowered OBS Ford extended cab can be a stunning and capable vehicle that stands out from the crowd.
Benefits of Lowering Your OBS Ford Extended Cab
The decision to lower your OBS Ford extended cab truck comes with a multitude of benefits, both aesthetically and functionally. From enhancing the vehicle's appearance to improving its handling and overall driving experience, the advantages are compelling for many truck enthusiasts. One of the primary benefits is the enhanced aesthetics. A lowered stance gives the truck a more aggressive, sporty, and modern look. The reduced gap between the tires and the fenders dramatically changes the vehicle's profile, creating a sleek and stylish appearance that stands out. This visual transformation can significantly increase the truck's curb appeal, making it a head-turner on the road. The ability to customize the ride height allows owners to achieve the exact look they desire, whether it's a subtle drop for a refined appearance or a more dramatic lowering for a bold statement. This level of personalization is a key reason why many OBS Ford owners choose to lower their trucks.
Beyond aesthetics, lowering an OBS Ford provides significant improvements in handling and performance. Lowering the truck's center of gravity reduces body roll during cornering, leading to more stable and confident handling. This is particularly noticeable during turns and maneuvers, where the truck feels more planted and responsive. The reduced body roll also enhances the driver's sense of control, making for a more enjoyable driving experience. Additionally, lowering can improve aerodynamics, albeit modestly, which can contribute to better fuel efficiency and high-speed stability. The combination of improved handling and enhanced stability translates to a safer and more predictable driving experience, especially in challenging road conditions. Furthermore, a lowered truck often exhibits reduced squat during acceleration and dive during braking, further improving its performance characteristics. The overall effect is a more refined and engaging driving experience that surpasses the stock configuration.
Methods for Lowering an OBS Ford Extended Cab
There are several methods for lowering an OBS Ford extended cab truck, each with its own set of advantages, disadvantages, and suitability for different applications. Understanding these methods is crucial for making an informed decision about which approach is best for your specific needs and goals. The most common methods include lowering springs, drop spindles, lowering shackles and hangers, and air suspension systems. Each of these options offers a different way to achieve a lowered ride height, with varying degrees of complexity and cost.
Lowering springs are one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to lower an OBS Ford. These springs are designed to be shorter and stiffer than the factory springs, which reduces the ride height while also improving handling. Lowering springs typically provide a drop of 1 to 3 inches, making them a good option for those seeking a moderate reduction in ride height. The installation process is relatively straightforward, involving the removal of the stock springs and the installation of the lowering springs in their place. However, it's important to choose high-quality lowering springs that are specifically designed for your truck model to ensure proper fitment and performance. Drop spindles are another popular option for lowering the front of an OBS Ford. These spindles effectively relocate the wheel mounting point higher up, which lowers the truck without affecting the suspension travel or ride quality. Drop spindles are often used in conjunction with lowering springs to achieve a more significant drop. For the rear of the truck, lowering shackles and hangers are commonly used. Shackles replace the factory shackles, which connect the leaf springs to the frame, while hangers relocate the mounting point of the leaf springs. By using shorter shackles or relocating the hangers, the rear of the truck can be lowered. This method is relatively inexpensive and easy to install, making it a popular choice for many OBS Ford owners. For those seeking the ultimate in adjustability and ride quality, air suspension systems offer a premium solution. These systems use air springs instead of traditional coil or leaf springs, allowing the ride height to be adjusted at the touch of a button. Air suspension systems provide a smooth and comfortable ride, even at very low ride heights, and they also allow the truck to be raised for added ground clearance when needed. However, air suspension systems are typically the most expensive option, and they require more complex installation and maintenance.
Essential Components for Lowering Your OBS Ford
When planning to lower your OBS Ford extended cab, selecting the right components is crucial for achieving the desired look, performance, and ride quality. The essential components for a successful lowering project typically include lowering springs, drop spindles, lowering shackles and hangers, shocks, and potentially a c-notch kit for significant drops in the rear. Each component plays a specific role in the lowering process, and choosing high-quality parts is essential for ensuring the longevity and reliability of the modification.
Lowering springs are a fundamental component for lowering the front of an OBS Ford. These springs are designed to be shorter and stiffer than the factory springs, which reduces the ride height and improves handling. When selecting lowering springs, it's important to choose a spring rate that matches your truck's weight and intended use. A stiffer spring rate will provide better handling but may result in a harsher ride, while a softer spring rate will offer a more comfortable ride but may not provide as much handling improvement. It's also crucial to choose springs that are specifically designed for your truck model to ensure proper fitment and performance. Drop spindles are another popular option for lowering the front of an OBS Ford. These spindles effectively relocate the wheel mounting point higher up, which lowers the truck without affecting suspension travel or ride quality. Drop spindles are often used in conjunction with lowering springs to achieve a more significant drop. They are a good option for those who want to lower their truck without compromising ride comfort. For the rear of the truck, lowering shackles and hangers are commonly used. Shackles replace the factory shackles, which connect the leaf springs to the frame, while hangers relocate the mounting point of the leaf springs. By using shorter shackles or relocating the hangers, the rear of the truck can be lowered. This method is relatively inexpensive and easy to install, making it a popular choice for many OBS Ford owners. However, it's important to note that lowering shackles and hangers can sometimes affect the pinion angle, which may require additional adjustments.
Shocks are often overlooked when lowering a vehicle, but they play a crucial role in ride quality and handling. When you lower your OBS Ford, the factory shocks may no longer be the optimal length or damping rate for the new ride height. Upgrading to shorter, performance-oriented shocks can significantly improve the ride and handling of your lowered truck. These shocks are designed to work with the lowered suspension, providing better control and comfort. For more significant drops, particularly in the rear, a c-notch kit may be necessary. When the rear axle travels upwards due to bumps or other road imperfections, it can hit the truck's frame, causing a harsh ride and potentially damaging the frame. A c-notch kit involves cutting a section of the frame and welding in a new section that provides additional clearance for the axle. This allows for more suspension travel and a smoother ride, even at very low ride heights. The installation of a c-notch kit is a more involved process and typically requires welding skills, but it's an essential step for achieving a significant drop without compromising ride quality or safety.
Step-by-Step Guide to Lowering Your OBS Ford Extended Cab
Lowering your OBS Ford extended cab truck can be a rewarding project, but it requires careful planning, the right tools, and a methodical approach. This step-by-step guide provides a general overview of the process, covering the key steps involved in lowering an OBS Ford using common methods such as lowering springs, drop spindles, and lowering shackles and hangers. However, it's important to consult your specific components' instructions and to have a good understanding of automotive mechanics before attempting this project. If you're not comfortable working on your vehicle, it's best to seek professional assistance.
1. Preparation and Planning: Before you begin, it's essential to gather all the necessary tools and components. This includes the lowering springs, drop spindles (if applicable), lowering shackles and hangers, new shocks (recommended), a jack and jack stands, wheel chocks, a socket set, wrenches, a torque wrench, and potentially a spring compressor. Review the instructions for each component and ensure you understand the installation process. It's also a good idea to take measurements of your truck's current ride height so you can compare it to the final result. Safety is paramount, so make sure you have a well-lit and safe workspace, and always use jack stands when working under the vehicle.
2. Front Suspension Lowering: Start by loosening the lug nuts on the front wheels. Then, using a jack, raise the front of the truck and securely place it on jack stands. Remove the front wheels. If you're installing drop spindles, this is the time to do so. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for removing the factory spindles and installing the drop spindles. This typically involves disconnecting the brake caliper, removing the tie rod end, and detaching the spindle from the upper and lower ball joints. If you're using lowering springs, you'll need to compress the factory springs using a spring compressor before removing them. Once the spring is compressed, you can disconnect the upper ball joint and carefully remove the spring. Install the new lowering spring, ensuring it's properly seated in the spring perch. Reassemble the suspension components, torquing all fasteners to the manufacturer's specifications. If you're replacing the shocks, now is the time to install the new ones.
3. Rear Suspension Lowering: Next, move to the rear of the truck. Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels, jack up the rear of the truck, and place it on jack stands. Remove the rear wheels. To lower the rear suspension, you'll typically use lowering shackles and hangers. Start by supporting the rear axle with a jack. Disconnect the factory shackles and hangers from the leaf springs and the frame. Install the new lowering shackles and hangers, ensuring they are properly aligned and securely fastened. Lowering shackles will replace the existing ones, while lowering hangers will need to be bolted into the frame in place of the factory hangers. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific shackles and hangers you are using. If you are installing a c-notch kit, this is a more involved process that requires cutting and welding the frame. It's recommended to have this done by a professional if you don't have experience with welding. After the rear suspension is lowered, install the new shocks if you're replacing them. These will help to improve the ride quality and handling of the lowered suspension.
4. Final Steps and Adjustments: Once all the suspension components are installed, reinstall the wheels and lower the truck to the ground. Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications. After the truck is on the ground, take it for a test drive to check for any issues. You may need to get the truck's alignment checked and adjusted after lowering it, as the suspension geometry will have changed. It's also a good idea to check the ride height at each corner of the truck and make any necessary adjustments. After a few days of driving, re-torque all the suspension fasteners to ensure they are properly tightened. Lowering your OBS Ford is a significant modification, so it's important to inspect the suspension components regularly to ensure they are in good condition.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
Lowering an OBS Ford extended cab truck can present several challenges, ranging from installation issues to potential ride quality and clearance problems. Being aware of these challenges and having solutions in mind can help ensure a smooth and successful lowering project. Common challenges include alignment issues, ride quality concerns, clearance problems, and driveline vibrations. Understanding these potential pitfalls and how to address them is crucial for achieving the desired results without compromising the vehicle's drivability or reliability.
Alignment issues are a common challenge after lowering any vehicle, including an OBS Ford. When the ride height is changed, the suspension geometry is also altered, which can affect the alignment angles. This can lead to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and even steering instability. To address this, it's essential to get a professional alignment after lowering your truck. A qualified alignment technician can adjust the camber, caster, and toe angles to ensure they are within the factory specifications or the desired performance range. Regular alignment checks are also recommended to maintain optimal handling and tire wear. Ride quality can also be a concern when lowering an OBS Ford. Lowering springs and shorter shocks can sometimes result in a harsher ride, especially if the components are not properly matched to the truck's weight and intended use. To improve ride quality, it's important to choose high-quality lowering components that are designed to work together. Shocks that are specifically valved for lowered vehicles can make a significant difference in ride comfort. Additionally, using a softer spring rate can help to smooth out the ride, but it may also reduce handling performance. Finding the right balance between ride quality and handling is key. Clearance problems are another potential issue when lowering an OBS Ford. Reducing the ride height decreases the amount of ground clearance, which can lead to scraping the undercarriage on speed bumps, driveways, and other obstacles. To minimize clearance issues, it's important to choose a moderate lowering amount that doesn't overly compromise ground clearance. Additionally, being mindful of the terrain you're driving on and avoiding obstacles can help prevent scraping. In some cases, modifications such as rolling the fender lips or installing a skid plate may be necessary to improve clearance.
Driveline vibrations can sometimes occur after lowering an OBS Ford, particularly if the rear of the truck is lowered significantly. This is because changing the ride height can alter the driveline angles, which can cause vibrations at certain speeds. To address driveline vibrations, it may be necessary to install shims between the rear axle and the leaf springs to correct the pinion angle. The pinion angle is the angle between the rear axle's pinion gear and the driveshaft. Adjusting the pinion angle can help to reduce vibrations and ensure smooth driveline operation. In some cases, a custom driveshaft may be required to completely eliminate vibrations. Another potential challenge is the need for a c-notch kit for significant drops in the rear. When the rear axle travels upwards due to bumps or other road imperfections, it can hit the truck's frame, causing a harsh ride and potentially damaging the frame. A c-notch kit involves cutting a section of the frame and welding in a new section that provides additional clearance for the axle. This allows for more suspension travel and a smoother ride, even at very low ride heights. The installation of a c-notch kit is a more involved process and typically requires welding skills, but it's an essential step for achieving a significant drop without compromising ride quality or safety.
Maintaining Your Lowered OBS Ford Extended Cab
Proper maintenance of your lowered OBS Ford extended cab is essential for preserving its appearance, performance, and ride quality. Lowering a vehicle changes its suspension geometry and can put additional stress on certain components, so regular maintenance is crucial for preventing problems and ensuring the longevity of the modifications. Key maintenance tasks include regular inspections, alignment checks, shock absorber maintenance, and undercarriage care. By following a consistent maintenance schedule, you can keep your lowered OBS Ford looking and performing its best.
Regular inspections are the cornerstone of any maintenance plan. Inspecting the suspension components, tires, and undercarriage on a regular basis can help you identify potential issues before they become major problems. Check the lowering springs for any signs of damage, such as cracks or corrosion. Inspect the shocks for leaks or other signs of wear. Examine the ball joints, tie rod ends, and other steering components for looseness or damage. Look for any signs of rubbing or interference between the tires and the fenders. Regularly inspecting these components can help you catch problems early and prevent them from escalating into more costly repairs. Alignment checks are particularly important for lowered vehicles. Lowering a truck changes its suspension geometry, which can affect the alignment angles. Misaligned wheels can lead to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and even steering instability. It's recommended to have the alignment checked at least once a year, or more frequently if you notice any signs of misalignment, such as uneven tire wear or pulling to one side. A professional alignment will ensure that the wheels are properly aligned, which will improve handling, tire life, and overall driving safety. Shock absorber maintenance is another crucial aspect of maintaining a lowered OBS Ford. Shocks play a vital role in ride quality and handling, and worn shocks can significantly degrade both. Regularly inspect the shocks for leaks, damage, or other signs of wear. If the shocks are leaking or no longer provide adequate damping, they should be replaced. Upgrading to high-quality shocks designed for lowered vehicles can further improve ride quality and handling. Shock absorbers typically need to be replaced every 50,000 to 75,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and the quality of the shocks.
Undercarriage care is especially important for lowered vehicles, as they have less ground clearance and are more susceptible to damage from road debris, speed bumps, and other obstacles. Regularly inspect the undercarriage for any signs of damage, such as dents, scratches, or corrosion. Clean the undercarriage regularly to remove dirt, salt, and other contaminants that can accelerate corrosion. Applying a rust inhibitor or undercoating can provide additional protection against corrosion. If you frequently drive on rough roads or in areas with harsh weather conditions, you may want to consider installing a skid plate to protect the undercarriage from damage. Paying attention to the undercarriage can help prevent costly repairs and keep your lowered OBS Ford looking its best. In addition to these specific maintenance tasks, it's also important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule for your OBS Ford. This includes regular oil changes, fluid checks, and other routine maintenance items. Keeping up with these tasks will help ensure the overall reliability and longevity of your truck. By following a consistent maintenance plan, you can enjoy the benefits of your lowered OBS Ford for years to come.
Conclusion: The Allure of the Lowered OBS Ford Extended Cab
In conclusion, the lowered OBS Ford extended cab truck represents a compelling blend of classic styling and modern performance enhancements. The OBS Ford trucks hold a special place in automotive history, and lowering one adds a personalized touch that enhances both its aesthetics and driving dynamics. The process, while potentially challenging, offers a rewarding experience for enthusiasts who appreciate the unique combination of vintage charm and contemporary handling.
From the improved aesthetics and enhanced handling to the sense of pride in driving a customized vehicle, the allure of a lowered OBS Ford is undeniable. However, the key to a successful project lies in careful planning, choosing the right components, and executing the installation with precision. Understanding the various lowering methods, essential components, and potential challenges is crucial for achieving the desired results without compromising the truck's functionality or reliability. Proper maintenance is also essential for preserving the investment and ensuring the longevity of the modifications. Whether it's a subtle drop for a refined look or a more aggressive stance for a bold statement, the lowered OBS Ford extended cab stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of these classic trucks and the creativity of their owners. The blend of form and function makes it a standout vehicle that embodies both style and performance, capturing the essence of automotive customization at its finest. With the right approach, a lowered OBS Ford extended cab can be a head-turning and enjoyable vehicle for years to come.
