1965 Impala BBC I/S

[Mark Yacavone]

Originally Posted by Dan Fahey

That was the X - Frame 1958 - 1964 Chevy/BOP/Caddy
Yes the 58 got the X-frame as GM began installing heavier engines.
GM always boosted about the ride quality.
The Lower Links were angled toward the X-Frame and no Panhard Bar.
This frame required 2 - short drive shafts and a Center Link prone to snapping. (I know that so well)

65 - 76 went to H - Frame 4 Link set up with Panhard Bar.
Spring set on the Lower Suspension Link.
Used much heavier U-joints.

Then 77 up to 96 D / B Body used the earlier 1964 & up Chevelle/BOP Mid sized car H-Frame set up.
Upper Control Arms were angled eliminating the Panhard Bar.
Spring mounted on the Axle.

The 91-96 used a 8.5inch 10bolt that has a history of being very rugged.
Someone said you can put a larger 8.75 12 bolt Carrier in it.
Never understood why they were not put in Camaro/FB?
The Drive shaft rarely had any issues.
U-Joints lasted the life of the car regardless of abuse.
For racing gears just needed a balancing and the weight tab removed from the Yoke...and still keeping the original U-joints.

On my 1995 Impala SS purchased a Dick Miller Frame Connector for the upper and lower control arms.
Think he makes it for the Plus Sized cars too.

Hope this helps..

D

For the record:

65-70 full size ..3 or 4 arm (right or both uppers). Panhard bar, and springs on trailing arms.
71-76 ..Std 4 trailing arm, springs on housing , except for f/s wagons ,which were leaf springs.
77-96 Std 4 trailing arms ....7.5 rear standard in these cars... even in f/s Chevy wagons.