If you're into lowering trucks or cars, you've likely come across the name Choppin Block. This brand has built a solid reputation in the aftermarket suspension world for producing reliable, well-engineered parts that help you achieve the perfect stance without sacrificing ride quality or safety. But with so many options available, understanding what Choppin Block suspension parts actually include, how they work, and which ones fit your vehicle can be a challenge. This guide breaks it all down so you can make an informed decision.
What Are Choppin Block Suspension Parts?
Choppin Block is a brand specializing in aftermarket suspension components, particularly for lowering vehicles. Their product lineup covers everything from basic drop spindles to complete air suspension kits. The company has been around for decades and is known for manufacturing parts that meet or exceed OEM standards. Many enthusiasts trust Choppin Block for its consistent quality and focus on performance.
History and Reputation
Founded in the 1980s, Choppin Block started as a small shop building custom suspension setups for hot rods and trucks. Over time, they expanded to mass-produce parts while maintaining a hands-on approach to design and testing. Today, they are a go-to brand for both DIY installers and professional shops. Their reputation rests on durability, precise fitment, and customer support.
Types of Choppin Block Suspension Parts
Choppin Block offers a wide range of parts to suit different lowering needs and vehicle types. Here are the main categories you'll encounter.
Lowering Kits (Spindles, Coils, Drop Shocks)
The most common Choppin Block products are lowering kits. These typically include drop spindles for the front and rear, lowering coils or leaf springs, and shorter-travel shocks. Spindles are a popular choice because they allow you to drop the ride height without altering the suspension geometry drastically. Coil spring kits provide a consistent drop, while leaf spring options are common for older trucks. Drop shocks are valved to match the lowered height and prevent bottoming out.
Air Suspension Components
For those who want adjustable ride height, Choppin Block offers air suspension systems. This includes air bags, compressors, valves, and control systems. Their air kits are designed to give a smooth ride and easy adjustability, whether you want to lay frame or just lower it for daily driving. The components are made with heavy-duty materials to withstand air pressure and road conditions.
Control Arms and Bushings
When you lower a vehicle, the stock control arms often become misaligned. Choppin Block produces upper and lower control arms with geometry correction built-in. These arms use high-quality ball joints and polyurethane bushings for long life and reduced play. They are a must-have for anyone dropping a vehicle more than a couple inches.
Sway Bars and End Links
To improve handling after lowering, Choppin Block sway bars are thicker and stiffer than stock. They reduce body roll during cornering. The end links are adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the bar's effect. This is especially useful for trucks that carry loads or for performance street driving.
Key Features and Benefits
What makes Choppin Block parts stand out? Here are the features that matter most to users.
Ride Quality and Handling
A common concern with lowering is a harsh ride. Choppin Block designs their springs and shocks to work together, maintaining compliance over bumps while reducing bounce. Many users report that their vehicles ride as well as or better than stock after installing a complete Choppin Block kit. The spindles preserve the proper steering axis inclination, which keeps steering feel predictable.
Durability and Materials
Choppin Block uses hardened steel for spindles, cold-formed wire for springs, and heavy-gauge tubing for control arms. All components are powder-coated or plated to resist rust. This attention to materials means the parts last for years, even in states that salt roads in winter.
Ease of Installation
Most Choppin Block parts are designed as direct bolt-ons. They come with clear instructions and all necessary hardware. No cutting or welding is required for typical kits, though some air suspension installations may need drilling. The company also provides tech support if you run into problems.
Compatibility and Vehicle Fitment
Choppin Block covers a broad range of vehicles, but they are especially known for trucks and classic cars.
Popular Truck Models
- Chevy/GMC C10 (1960-1987) – These are the bread and butter of Choppin Block's lineup. You can get complete front and rear lowering kits.
- Ford F-100 (1965-1979) – Various kits available, including inline and V8 models.
- Dodge D100 (1960-1971) – Spindles and coil kits for early Mopar trucks.
- S10/S15 (1982-2004) – Popular mini truck platform with multiple drop options.
Car Applications
Choppin Block also serves classic muscle cars and some modern performance cars. For example, they produce parts for the 1964-1972 Chevelle, 1965-1970 Mustang, and 1970-1981 Camaro. Always check their website or catalog to confirm fitment for your specific year and model.
How to Choose the Right Choppin Block Parts
Picking the right setup depends on your goals and vehicle. Here are factors to consider.
Consider Your Drop Height
Choppin Block offers drops ranging from 2 inches to 5 inches or more. For a mild drop that still allows daily driving, 2-3 inches is common. If you want to lay frame or go extreme, you'll need a combination of spindles, dropped coils, and possibly a notch. Keep in mind that more drop often requires additional parts like a C-notch for the rear axle to clear the frame.
Driving Style and Usage
If you use your vehicle for hauling or towing, you may want a setup that retains some load capacity. Choppin Block's heavy-duty leaf springs with helper bags can handle weight. For a street performance car, a coilover-style kit with adjustable shocks gives the best handling.
Budget and Quality
Choppin Block parts are mid-range in price—not the cheapest, but not the most expensive. They offer good value for the quality. Avoid mixing brands; stick with a complete Choppin Block kit for consistent engineering. If you plan to later upgrade to air ride, starting with their spindles and then adding air bags later is a smart approach.
Installation Tips and Considerations
- Alignment is critical. After lowering, you must get a professional alignment. Choppin Block parts often require adjustable camber/caster bushings or arms, which they sell separately.
- Check brakes and lines. Lowering can stress brake hoses and ABS lines. Extend or relocate them as needed.
- Torque everything. Use a torque wrench on all bolts per the instructions. Looseness causes noise and wear.
- Consider shock extenders. If you use drop shocks, they may need relocation brackets to clear the frame.
Final Recommendation: Are Choppin Block Parts Right for You?
If you want a reliable, bolt-on way to lower your truck or classic car without breaking the bank, Choppin Block is a solid choice. Their parts are proven, well-supported, and designed for real-world driving. Start by determining your desired drop height and usage, then select a kit that matches. For first-timers, a 2-3 inch drop spindle and coil kit is a straightforward project. For enthusiasts seeking maximum adjustability, their air suspension components offer the flexibility to go low or ride high at the touch of a button. Whichever route you take, Choppin Block gives you the quality you need to achieve the stance you want while keeping your vehicle safe and enjoyable to drive.