ByUpgrading the suspension on your classic Bullnose Ford F-Series (1980-1986) can completely transform how your truck drives. The Crown Vic IFS Swap Kit has become one of the most popular modifications for enthusiasts who want modern performance without sacrificing the vintage look of their Ford trucks. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about swapping your stock suspension with the Crown Victoria IFS (2003-2011) and why this upgrade is a game-changer.
Upgrading classic trucks is more than just a hobby; it’s a passion that brings the old-school charm of vehicles like the Ford F-Series Bullnose into the modern world. One of the most sought-after mods for the 1980-1986 Bullnose trucks is the Crown Vic IFS (Independent Front Suspension) Swap. This swap significantly improves handling, ride quality, and braking performance while lowering the truck for a sleeker, aggressive stance.
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why this swap is so popular, the components needed, the steps involved, and common pitfalls to avoid. Whether you’re new to modifying trucks or an experienced gearhead, this guide will offer valuable insights to help you tackle the project with confidence.
Brief Overview of Crown Vic IFS Swaps
The Crown Victoria Independent Front Suspension (IFS), found in 2003-2011 Crown Victoria models, is a favourite among classic truck owners. This front-end suspension swap provides a modern steering rack, disc brakes, and enhanced handling that outperforms the stock Bullnose suspension. It’s a cost-effective way to bring your vintage Ford F100, F150, or F250 into the 21st century.
Swapping the Crown Vic suspension subframe onto your Bullnose Ford offers more than just modern suspension geometry. The swap also reduces the truck’s ride height, giving it a more aggressive and stable stance while maintaining the classic look of the Ford F-Series.
Importance of Modernizing Bullnose Trucks (1980-1986 Ford F-Series)
The Bullnose Ford F-Series trucks (1980-1986) have earned a dedicated following for their rugged design and dependable performance. However, advancements in suspension technology have left them behind in terms of comfort, handling, and braking. By modernizing your truck with a Crown Vic IFS swap, you gain the reliability and safety of a modern suspension system without losing the charm of your classic ride.
This swap is especially important if you use your truck for daily driving, towing, or hauling. The improved ride quality and handling ensure your Bullnose is ready for anything, while the disc brake conversion gives you better-stopping power, especially under load.
Key Benefits of the Crown Vic IFS Swap Kit for Bullnose
Improved Ride Quality and Handling
One of the main reasons to perform a Crown Vic IFS swap is the dramatic improvement in ride quality. The independent front suspension allows each wheel to move independently, offering a smoother, more comfortable ride. This is a major upgrade from the stock solid axle setup, which can feel stiff and bumpy on uneven roads.
Handling is also greatly improved. The Crown Vic steering rack and pinion offer precise steering control, making your truck feel more responsive, especially at higher speeds or in cornering situations. Whether you’re on the highway or back roads, your Bullnose will handle it like a dream.
Enhanced Braking Performance
The Crown Victoria suspension comes equipped with modern disc brakes, giving you significantly better braking power compared to the stock Bullnose drum brakes. Many kits also include options for upgrading to a performance Crown Vic brake kit that offers larger rotors and callipers, allowing for quicker and safer stops. This upgrade is particularly beneficial if you’re using your truck for towing or heavy hauling.
Lower Ride Height and Aesthetic Appeal
If you’re after a lower, more aggressive stance for your Ford F-Series Bullnose, this swap delivers. The Crown Vic IFS naturally lowers your truck by several inches, giving it that “slammed” look without compromising ride quality or performance. This lower-ride height mod enhances the truck’s street appeal while still maintaining practicality for everyday use.
Cost-Effectiveness and Availability of Parts
Another huge benefit of the Crown Vic IFS swap is the availability and affordability of parts. Many junkyards carry 2003-2011 Crown Victoria parts, making it easy to find the necessary components for the swap. OEM parts from these vehicles are reliable and designed to last, meaning you can source the entire front suspension setup without breaking the bank.
Components of a Crown Vic IFS Swap Kit
A successful Crown Vic IFS swap requires several key components, each playing an essential role in ensuring your truck’s performance and safety.
Breakdown of Essential Parts:
- Subframe or Crossmember: The heart of the swap is the Crown Vic subframe. This subframe is what attaches the entire IFS system to your Bullnose’s chassis.
- Control Arms (Upper and Lower): These connect the wheels to the subframe, allowing for better movement and handling compared to the stock setup.
- Coil Springs and Shocks: These components are critical for maintaining ride comfort while handling various road conditions.
- Steering Rack: The rack and pinion steering system from the Crown Vic provides precise steering response, making your truck more agile.
- Disc Brakes (Rotors, Calipers, and Pads): Modern disc brakes ensure you have superior stopping power, especially when compared to older drum brake systems.
- Mounting Brackets and Fabrication Needs: Custom welded mounting brackets are often needed to properly position the subframe onto the Bullnose Ford chassis.
Step-by-Step Guide to Performing the Swap
Tools and Equipment Needed
Before you start the swap, make sure you have the following tools and equipment:
- Wrenches, socket set, and breaker bars
- Welder for bracket fabrication
- Measuring tape and alignment tools
- Hydraulic jack stands for safety
To begin, remove the factory suspension by unbolting the control arms, steering components, and brake lines. Be sure to safely jack up your truck and support it with jack stands during this process.
Accurate measurement is key to ensuring the subframe fits properly. Measure and mark where the Crown Vic subframe will attach to the Bullnose frame, ensuring proper alignment to avoid steering or ride issues later on.
In most cases, you’ll need to fabricate or modify existing mounting brackets to secure the subframe. Proper welding is crucial here, as these brackets will bear the weight of your truck and endure significant stress while driving.
Once the subframe is mounted, install the upper and lower control arms, shocks, and steering rack. This is also the time to connect your brake system and steering linkage.
After everything is installed, ensure proper alignment by adjusting the steering rack and suspension components. This is vital to avoid uneven tyre wear and poor handling.
Important Considerations for a Successful Swap
Depending on your truck’s intended use, you may need to reinforce the frame around the subframe mounting points to handle the additional stress from the upgraded suspension.
If your truck is 4WD, you’ll need to address the loss of the front differential, as the Crown Vic suspension is designed for 2WD applications.
Ensure that other components like the engine, transmission, and driveshaft remain compatible with the new Crown Vic suspension.
Cost Analysis and Where to Source Parts
Sourcing parts from a junkyard can save you money, but aftermarket kits offer brand-new components and additional customizability.
A full swap can range from $500 to $1,500, depending on whether you source parts from a junkyard or purchase a full aftermarket kit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Improper Measurement and Alignment: Misaligning the subframe can lead to poor handling and dangerous driving conditions.
- Inadequate Welding or Mount Fabrication: Weak welds can cause structural failure, especially under heavy loads.
- Ignoring Frame Reinforcement for Heavier Loads: Always reinforce the frame if you plan on using your truck for towing or heavy-duty applications.
FAQs About the Crown Vic IFS Swap Kit for Bullnose
What Years of Crown Vic IFS Work Best?
The best donor vehicles are the 2003-2011 Ford Crown Victoria models, which offer the most compatible suspension systems.
How Much Does the Swap Lower Ride Height?
The Crown Vic IFS swap typically lowers the ride height by 3 to 5 inches, depending on how it’s installed and if you use any custom coil springs or performance coilovers. This lowering gives your truck a sportier, more aggressive look while improving stability and handling.
Do I Need Professional Help for Welding and Fabrication?
While some experienced hobbyists can tackle the necessary welding and fabrication, it’s always recommended to have a professional welder handle critical tasks like mounting bracket fabrication. Strong, clean welds are essential to ensuring the suspension holds up under the stress of daily driving or heavy loads.
Additional Modifications to Consider After the Swap
Once you’ve completed your Crown Vic IFS swap, you may want to consider a few other upgrades to maximize performance and aesthetics.
With the front end lowered, you may want to adjust the rear suspension to level the truck. This can be done with a rear flip kit, lowering blocks, or replacing the leaf springs with a more modern setup.
While the Crown Vic IFS offers excellent braking performance, upgrading your truck’s brake lines, master cylinder, and brake booster can provide even better-stopping power. This is especially important if you’ve upgraded to larger brake rotors and callipers.
Swapping in performance coil-overs can fine-tune your ride height and improve the handling characteristics of your truck. Coilovers are adjustable and allow you to dial in your truck’s stance and ride comfort to suit your driving preferences.
Conclusion
The Crown Vic IFS Swap Kit for Bullnose Ford Trucks offers a fantastic way to modernize your truck’s handling, ride quality, and braking performance while giving it a sleek, lowered look. Whether you’re an experienced mechanic or a first-time DIYer, this upgrade delivers significant improvements for an affordable price.
With the detailed guide and considerations covered in this article, you can confidently plan and execute your swap. Not only will you enhance the performance of your 1980-1986 Ford F-Series, but you’ll also enjoy the benefits of modern suspension technology in a classic truck body.
There’s no denying the benefits of the Crown Vic IFS swap. It’s a cost-effective, widely available solution that brings vintage trucks into the modern era. For anyone serious about their Bullnose F-Series, this swap is an excellent investment that adds value and usability to your vehicle.
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