DSE SpeedMAX Front Suspension System For 1973-1987 GM C/K Trucks

GM’s Squarebody C/K trucks turn 50 next year. After years of languishing in the shadow of the ’67-72 GM trucks, Squarebodies are now the belle of the ball. With stout build quality and broad-shouldered good looks, thousands of 1973-1987 GM trucks are being resurrected across the country.
Although 50 is the new 30, Squarebodies are essentially antique vehicles these days. If you want to restore your C/K suspension or take your big fella autocrossing, Detroit Speed & Engineering (DSE) has a great way to give your old Squarebody a rejuvenating drink from the fountain of youth.
Well known in the aftermarket scene, DSE designs modern running gear to endow your Square body truck with modern-day levels of ride and handling. The company’s SpeedMAX front suspension system is engineered with exclusive DSE geometry that delivers better handling as well as lowered ride height. The best part is the SpeedMAX front suspension is a bolt-on affair that accepts OEM-style GMT800 brakes, giving you a myriad of brake options.
SpeedMax works with small and big block engines, and comes with rack-and-pinion steering, wheel hubs, and sway bars, making this system a one-stop affair. SpeedMAX suspensions are available with non-adjustable, single-adjustable, and dual-adjustable shocks as well.

Features:

  • 100-percent bolt-on front suspension system that can be installed in your garage
  • Body panels and engine do not need to be removed for ease of installation
  • Features “Detroit Tuned” GMT800 rack-and-pinion for positive and smooth steering
  • DSE “Detroit Tuned” aluminum body coilover shocks/springs with 650 lb/in springs (for big block Chevy engine) allow for ride height adjustment and spring-rate tuning without having to disassemble the control arms for a 4- to a 6-inch drop
  • Features ADI (Austempered Ductile Iron) upper shock bracket that uses a special heat-treated high-strength cast iron for excellent wear resistance and fatigue strength
  • Forged in the USA, DSE aluminum spindle assemblies feature a 5 x 5-inch or 5 x 4.75-inch dual bolt pattern hub pack wheel bearing designed to use modern GMT800 (1999-2006) GM Truck brakes (requires DSE 13-inch dual-drilled rotors)
  • USA forged-steel steering arm bolts onto the spindle
  • Includes sway bar with improved design/rate over optional factory bar using polyurethane bushings and low friction, modern aluminum end links to control sway
  • Uses tubular upper and lower control arms with Delrin bushings that are designed for trucks
  • Stainless steel upper control arm cross shafts feature caster tuner bushings for quick and easy caster changes independent of camber
  • Kits available with non-adjustable, single-adjustable, or dual-adjustable shocks
  • Accepts big-block Chevy engine mounts
  • The required steering coupler kit (available separately) is designed to be used with SpeedMax kits and features high-quality U-joints for a smooth, positive steering feel.  Go here for more info and pricing.

Article Sources

About the author

Dave Cruikshank

Dave Cruikshank is a lifelong car enthusiast and an editor at Power Automedia. He digs all flavors of automobiles, from classic cars to modern EVs. Dave loves music, design, tech, current events, and fitness.
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