New Here Few Questions.

[Hotwheeler08]

Im looking to build me a 4x4 rail/crawler. Not really wanting a pro rock crawler just a 4wd with a rail body instead of a truck. Well i have a 50 model chevrolet truck frame. Its bare rolling chassis. The front and rear ends are already setup for leaf spring suspension. I was wondering where i could find a good set of used lift leaf springs to throw on this. Im pretty good at suspension work so that want be a problem, but im kinda new to the 4x4 as ive always done air suspension. And could someone give me some pics of modified frames that have been done the same way im wanting. and THANX    MICHAEL

[Rocksnail]

well you could go to the junk yard and get some springs. I may be wrong on these numbers, But ti think you want 52 inch springs eye to eye. for the front. and 63inch springs for the rear. This combo should give you some good flex.

[Hotwheeler08]

Ok im not gonna be putting a ton of money into this. I have my show trucks thats all i need to sink a fortune into lol.  But my wife has agreed to let me build this.  i i already have a crate 350 from jegs, or a 283 small block that me and my father built. 350 tranny and 700r4 laying in the garage, but the suspension part such as the front and rear ends and leaf springs im kinda clueless on and trying to decide what size tires and everything im gonna need, thats why im here for. and thank you again

[Rocksnail]

the springs would cost you $200 at very most. What axles do you have? the stock chevy? or do you still need to buy them? what kind of 4x4 do you want to do? rocks , sand , mud, a bit of everything? need to think about what you want to get out of this rig. then its a little easryer to give you advice.

[Hotwheeler08]

Very little rocks but alot of mud, Im going to need to get rear and front ends, pretty much starting from frame to be honest. Ive just been seeing these 4x4 "rails" in the woods and i love them. So thats where im at now.

[Rocksnail]

What size tires you going to run? Do you have a T case? Do you want a Big lift?, or a small lift? you play in Deep mud lil water holes?  I would say a dana 60 front and a 14bolt ff rear. And would use that 350 350 combo. need more info on what you want out of this thing. and your plans for it. i could tell you how I would build a mud truck, But i dont know what your needs are.

[Hotwheeler08]

Im probably going to run 38" buckshots. NO transfer case yet, dont want a huge lift but like the way some of the rock crawlers height are. yes i want it to be good for deep mud. i will trailer it everywhere i go so thats no issue.

[Rocksnail]

i would go look at the chevy forum on pirate4x4. there are alot of nice build ups there. and lots of good ideas.

[Snowtoy]

Since you aren't concerned with having a body, it would be easier/better to start w/a used SA domestic 4x4 or chassis.  It will also likely be cheaper buying a complete ratted out rig than sourcing the parts.