Stance

Before setting up the suspension on a hot rod, the stance should be determined. There are several items that will determine the stance. Wheels and tires play a big part, as does ride height and ride attitude. One easy way to determine how your rod will sit is to find a similar car to the one you are building and "copy" that setup. Another way is to mock the car up using similar size wheels and tires. You can assemble the body on the frame and the fenders, if it will be a fendered car. Put the car on jack stands and place the wheels under the fenders, or make plywood or cardboard cutouts the same size as the wheels and tires you plan to run. Then you can adjust the ride height and attitude to suit your taste. Once you have decided how the car will sit, make measurements from the ground to the bottom of the frame at the axle centerline and from the ground to the center of the wheel. The difference between these two measurements will be the spindle or rearend centerline in relation to the bottom of the frame AT RIDE HEIGHT. When you set up your suspension, or when you purchase the suspension kits, you will know these dimensions and be able to order the correct kits and components.
We have found on the 35-48 Fords, and many others also, that placing the frame 4" lower at the front frame horn than the rear frame horn is a good starting place. Measure from the ground to the very bottom of the horn at the very front end, and the very bottom at the very rear end of the rail.