Restoring or customizing a 1956 Lincoln Premiere is a rewarding project. One of the most impactful upgrades you can make is to the suspension. The original system was designed for comfort on the boulevards of the 1950s, but aftermarket suspension parts can dramatically improve ride quality, handling, and safety. This guide covers the key aftermarket components available for your '56 Lincoln Premiere, including coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms, sway bars, and bushings. Whether you're aiming for a period-correct restoration or a modernized driving experience, understanding your options will help you make informed choices.
Why Upgrade the Suspension on a 1956 Lincoln Premiere?
The stock suspension on a 1956 Lincoln Premiere uses a front independent setup with coil springs and a solid rear axle with leaf springs. Over time, original components wear out, leading to sagging, poor ride quality, and vague steering. Aftermarket parts offer several benefits:
- Improved ride comfort: Modern shock absorbers and springs can smooth out bumps without sacrificing control.
- Better handling: Upgraded sway bars and firmer bushings reduce body roll and improve cornering stability.
- Increased safety: New ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings restore steering precision and reduce play.
- Custom stance: Lowering springs or air ride systems allow you to achieve a desired look.
Key Aftermarket Suspension Components
Coil Springs and Leaf Springs
For the front, aftermarket coil springs are available in various rates. Stock replacements match original ride height, while lowering springs drop the car 1–2 inches for a more aggressive stance. If you're retaining the rear leaf springs, consider new spring packs that restore ride height and load capacity. Some suppliers offer progressive-rate springs that combine comfort with control.
Shock Absorbers
Modern hydraulic or gas-charged shocks dramatically improve damping. Options include:
- Original-style shocks: These maintain the factory appearance but with modern internals for better performance.
- Adjustable shocks: Allow fine-tuning of rebound and compression for different driving conditions.
- Air shocks: Provide adjustable ride height and load leveling, especially useful for towing or heavy loads.
Control Arms and Bushings
Front upper and lower control arms can be purchased with new ball joints and bushings pre-installed. Polyurethane bushings replace the original rubber, reducing flex and improving alignment stability. For the rear, tubular aftermarket control arms are available to locate the axle more precisely.
Sway Bars
A thicker front sway bar reduces body roll during cornering. Some aftermarket kits include a rear sway bar that was not originally fitted, greatly improving handling balance. Pair with polyurethane sway bar bushings and end links for maximum effectiveness.
Steering Linkage
Tie rod ends, center links, and idler arms wear over time. Aftermarket replacements are often made with improved materials and tighter tolerances, restoring steering response.
Complete Front End Kits
Many suppliers offer complete front end rebuild kits that include all necessary ball joints, bushings, tie rod ends, and sometimes coil springs and shocks. These kits simplify ordering and ensure all parts are compatible.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Parts
When selecting components, consider your driving goals:
- Daily driver/restoration: Stick with stock-style replacements from reputable brands. These maintain factory ride height and comfort while improving durability.
- Performance/cruising: Invest in performance springs, adjustable shocks, and polyurethane bushings. Expect a firmer ride with far better handling.
- Custom/lowrider: Lowering springs or air ride systems will give you a dramatic drop. Air ride offers adjustability but requires more maintenance. Always choose parts specifically designed for the 1956 Lincoln Premiere. Many classic car suppliers list applications by year and model. If you're unsure, consult a specialist or your mechanic.
Installation Considerations
Suspension work on a heavy, 60-year-old car requires careful planning. Always use jack stands and wheel chocks. Consider replacing hardware (nuts, bolts, washers) with new grade-8 fasteners. For spring work, use a proper spring compressor. Some modifications, like lowering, may require adjustable parts to maintain proper alignment. After any suspension upgrade, get a professional alignment to prevent uneven tire wear and ensure safe handling.
Top Brands for 1956 Lincoln Premiere Suspension
Several manufacturers produce high-quality aftermarket parts for this model:
- Eaton Detroit Spring: Known for leaf springs and coil springs.
- QA1: Offers adjustable shocks and coil-over systems.
- MOOG: Supplies steering and suspension components like ball joints and tie rods.
- Polyuria: Produces polyurethane bushings.
- Ridetech: Specializes in air ride and performance suspension. Always verify fitment before purchase.
Final Recommendation
For most 1956 Lincoln Premiere owners, a balanced approach works best: rebuild the front end with a complete kit (new springs, ball joints, bushings, and tie rods), install new gas-charged shocks all around, and add a front sway bar if not already equipped. This combination restores original-like ride quality with noticeable improvements in control and safety. If you want a lower stance or sharper handling, choose lowering springs (1 inch drop) and polyurethane bushings. Invest in quality parts from established suppliers—your Premiere will reward you with miles of smooth cruising.