IFS vs. Straight/Leaf...Pro-Comp vs. OME?

[cscrawford]

Wow, the truck was mfg. in 85, but it may actually be an 86. They sure looked like CV boots to me, like on a FWD car. Does the IFS have coil springs on the front opposed to leaf? I'm trying to figure out how to tell for sure.

If that is the case, am I correct in assuming it will be
a) bettter riding on the road and
b) weaker and less able off road?

I know the IFS isn't as desireable off road, but should it be a deal breaker for the guy who plans to do hardcore off-road with it? If it turns out to be a nightmare It'll probably go to such a guy if I throw in the towell (looking at resale). I'm still planning to stay mostly on road...for now. I was planning to build it a little heavier if I got a non-IFS, but may have to change directions here. Bottom line is I'll try to buy it either way, but would still like opinions on what to do, regardless. In researching, I've so far concluded the OME is the best for a slight lift while keeping ride quality. I'm real close to a 4Wheel Parts store that installs lots of suspension, and I was thinking of the Pro Comp kits until I learned of OME. Thoughts on Pro Comp?

Yikes, I just priced kits for 86 vs. 85. BIG price difference. I'll have to figure out what I'm dealing with. Thanks again, I really appreciate your help and hope to get my "fix," no pun intended, on this sight.

-Chris

 

[yotatilla]

There are several different ways tell the differance. If you see CV shafts and boots, IFS. If you see A arms, IFS. If there is a crossmember below the axle, IFS. If there are leaf springs, then it is a straight axle. Below is a pic of my truck with IFS. People have big misconceptions about IFS. A lot of hardcore offroaders will laugh you off a trail if you are running IFS. I run IFS and can run through anything, plus I get a nice ride on the road. It is a little more complicated, but it is no big deal if a truck is IFS. There are going to be several people who disagree with this coming up below, but I have no problem with my IFS.

 

[yotatilla]

Here is a pic of my IFS. There is nothign wrong with IFS, unless you are a rock crawler, then it becomes an issue of traction. The IFS loves mud, it loves sand, it loves trails in general. The only thing that IFS is not the best at is rocks. I get laughed at when i show up with IFS by some people, but it isnt always the equipment, it is the driver as well. I can handle the IFS well and it will go anywhere that a straigh axle will. hope this helps, Sam.

 

[fourwd1]

IFS uses torsion bars instead of leafs or coils.

OME is definetely the best for ride.

Many people have told me their Pro-Comps give a very harsh ride.

You can always do a solid axle swap.

 

[Klez]

I have All-Pro springs on mine and they ride ten times better then whatever was on it before. It's my daily driver and a blast to drive :

 

[cscrawford]

Thanks for the feedback

I crawled back under the truck. Definitely a straight axle. The "knuckles" or whatever they are called were just so filthy and dust coated I couldn't see any metal and assumed they were boots. I just didn't know what to look for. I've learned a lot from this sight and appreciate the help. I just posted another Q. on scary low engine oil levels. Thanks for the suspension feedback also.