Classic Performance Parts 1985 C20 Suspension Kit: Upgrade Your Truck's Ride and Handling

The 1985 Chevrolet C20 is a classic workhorse, but its factory suspension often leaves much to be desired by today's standards. Whether you use your truck for hauling, towing, or weekend cruising, upgrading to a quality suspension kit can dramatically improve ride comfort, handling, and safety. A well-chosen suspension kit tailored for the 1985 C20 can address common issues like sagging springs, vague steering, and excessive body roll. This guide covers what to look for in a suspension kit, key components, and how to make an informed purchase.

Why Upgrade the Suspension on a 1985 C20?

Stock suspension on these trucks was designed for utility, not comfort or handling. Over time, springs sag, bushings deteriorate, and shocks lose their damping ability. A modern suspension kit can:

• Improve ride quality: New springs and shocks absorb bumps better.
• Enhance handling: Reduce body roll and improve steering response.
• Increase load capacity: Heavy-duty options help if you carry heavy loads.
• Restore ride height: Replace worn components to bring the truck back to original stance or achieve a desired look.

Key Components of a 1985 C20 Suspension Kit

When shopping for a suspension kit, you'll typically find these components included or available separately:

Coil Springs and Leaf Springs

The front of a 1985 C20 uses coil springs, while the rear uses leaf springs. Kits may offer new springs to restore ride height or lower the truck. For a classic truck, many owners prefer a slight drop (1-2 inches) for better stance without sacrificing load capacity. Heavy-duty springs are available for towing.

Shock Absorbers

Shocks control spring oscillation. Modern gas-charged shocks like Bilstein or KYB offer better damping than old-style hydraulic units. Some kits include shocks; others require separate purchase. Look for shocks specifically valved for the C20's weight.

Sway Bars (Anti-Roll Bars)

Many aftermarket kits add or upgrade sway bars to reduce body roll in corners. A front sway bar is common; rear sway bars can also be added for flatter cornering. Stock trucks often had only a front bar or none at all.

Control Arms and Bushings

Worn control arm bushings cause loose steering. Some kits include new upper/lower control arms with polyurethane bushings. Polyurethane offers better response than rubber but transmits more vibration.

Steering Components

Some comprehensive kits include tie rod ends, pitman arms, idler arms, and steering dampers. These parts tighten up steering and reduce play. They are especially important for trucks with high mileage.

Hardware and Brackets

Bolts, washers, and brackets for installation are often included. Check the kit's content list to ensure you have everything needed.

Types of Suspension Kits for the 1985 C20

Kits range from basic to complete. Consider your budget and needs:

Basic Leveling Kits

These typically include front coil springs or spacers to raise the front to match the rear, giving a level stance. They are affordable but may not improve ride quality much.

Lowering Kits

Popular among custom truck enthusiasts. A 2/4 or 3/5 drop (front/rear) is common. Kits include lowering springs, drop spindles (for front), and notch kits (for rear axle clearance). Use with proper shocks and shock relocators.

Performance Handling Kits

Focus on improved cornering and stability. They often include stiffer springs, performance shocks, sway bars, and polyurethane bushings. Brands like CPP, ECE, and McGaughy's offer such kits.

Complete Restoration Kits

Everything from frame to wheels: springs, shackles, bushings, shocks, steering linkage, and hardware. Ideal for a frame-off restoration. Companies like Classic Performance Parts and POL offer comprehensive kits.

Choosing the Right Kit: Factors to Consider

Intended Use

• Daily driver: Focus on comfort with moderate handling. Standard replacement springs and good gas shocks.
• Hauling/Towing: Heavy-duty leaf springs and load-leveling shocks. Avoid extreme lowering.
• Street performance: Lowered stance, stiffer springs, upgraded sway bars.
• Restoration: OEM-equivalent parts for originality.

Brand Reputation

• Classic Performance Parts (CPP): Wide range of components and kits for GM trucks. Known for quality and fitment.
• Early Classic Enterprises (ECE): Specializes in C10/C20 suspension, offers springs, sway bars, and complete kits.
• McGaughy's: Popular for lowering solutions, including spindles and springs.
• Ridetech: High-end coilover kits, more expensive but excellent handling.
• Moog: Steering and suspension parts, good for individual components.

Component Quality

• Springs: Look for powder-coated or painted finish to resist rust. Variable rate coils provide better ride.
• Bushings: Polyurethane lasts longer than rubber but can squeak; rubber is quieter.
• Shocks: Adjustable shocks offer tuning flexibility.

Installation Complexity

• Basic spring and shock swap: DIY with basic tools.
• Control arm replacement: Requires spring compressors and careful procedure.
• Axle notch for drop: Requires welding; may need professional help.
• Alignment: Always needed after suspension work.

Installation Tips

• Safety first: Use jack stands, never rely on a jack alone. Compress springs safely.
• Penetrating oil: Spray bolts a day before to ease removal.
• Mark original ride height bolts: For reference.
• Torque specifications: Follow the manufacturer's settings, tighten with weight on suspension.
• Break-in period: New springs may settle over first few hundred miles; recheck ride height.

Final Recommendation

For most owners of a 1985 C20 looking to improve performance without extreme modification, a stage 2 handling kit from Classic Performance Parts offers an excellent balance. It includes front and rear sway bars, performance shocks, and polyurethane bushings. Pair it with new coil springs and rear leaf springs if yours are sagging. If you primarily haul heavy loads, opt for a heavy-duty leaf spring set and Bilstein shocks. For a lowered look, a 2/4 drop kit from McGaughy's with matching shocks and a rear notch (if needed) is a proven choice. Always ensure you get all necessary hardware and consult your local alignment shop before starting. Upgrading your 1985 C20 suspension is one of the best investments you can make in safety and driving pleasure.