The factory shocks on the Dakota's are really soft and some of the trucks
don't even come with a rear swaybar. The first step(s) would be to replace
the shocks all the way around with something more aggressive such as the
Edelbrock Shocks, or if you like "Kidney Busters"...ProComp makes a great
Offroad shock that doubles as a "Sport Truck" shock as well (ES9000). You
can also replace/install a rear swaybar with minimal work with the Helwig
"Sport-Tech" Swaybar Kit (Rear only).
You can find aftermarket coils/springs but most them lower the truck as
well. This is great for handling but it may not be what you had in
mind...personal choice.
As for the spring clamps, BIG No-No...if one of the breaks while driving,
you could possibly loose control of the vehicle due to the sudden change in
geometry...especially on cornering. These have always been considered a
"last ditch" alternative if the coils can't be modified or replaced.
(I noticed that you have 31" tires already and you didn't mention if this
is a 2WD or 4WD.)
Regards,
At 02:08 PM 06/16/1999 -0600, you wrote:
>
>Hi all, been lurking for months, have a question.
>
>I seek an auto/truck handling textbook. I want to know everything, the
>local bookstores have been unable to help me.
>
>Since I probably won't find one,I have two percieved problems with
>handling.
>
>At 70mph if I hit a bump the truck floats a bit. I'm thinking probably
>thicker torsion bars, or possibly different shocks (although I'm not sure
>what qualities these shocks should have). What do you guys think? Both?
>Depends?
>
>If I hit a bump in a corner the rear end wants to walk away. Again torsion
>bars would make the front stiffer RELATIVE to the back, which I think
>would help, right? Coils would help, but are not practical, I think.
>Someone mentioned a mr Gasket spring clamp helping with hopping. I'm
>curious what it clamps and how it would make a difference? I guess
>traction bars would help but I don't want to give up any clearance. I've
>got big bouncy 31' tires, more metal in the wheel area may also help (if I
>can arrange it) right?
>
>Thanks!
>mike
>99 RC manual 318 crank windows ;) cap
>
>michael.crotty@m.cc.utah.edu
>
Bernd D. Ratsch
Pflugerville, TX
http://lonestar.texas.net/~bernd/Dakota.htm
1997 Dodge Dakota SLT/CC (V6)
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