RideTech 18987999 Universal Triangulated 4-Link

The triangulated version 4Link is a tubular version of the tried and true rear suspension that GM has used since 1964. Welding and basic fabrication skills are needed. As a result, the triangulated 4Link is highly adaptable to a variety of custom installations. The triangulated 4 link can use a CoolRide style airspring/bracket/shock arrangement, with a Coil-Over, or a rear Shockwave® as an upgrade option. For the professional shop or advanced installer, the triangulated 4Link is the top choice.  Now Includes R-Joints!

• No panhard bar needed
• Allows maximum suspension travel and tighter wheel to fender clearances
• Highly adaptable to most vehicles
• Simple, straightforward installation

The triangulated 4Link is designed for the professional builder who wants a straightforward, no-compromise rear air ride suspension.

4-Link Tech

What’s the difference between a triangulated 4 link and a parallel 4 link?

Both styles of 4 link accomplish the same thing… very simply, they hold the rear axle in the vehicle. The function of a 4 link is to keep the rear axle in its proper place under the vehicle. The bottom 2 links keep the axle in place front to back. The upper 2 links keep the axle from rotating, keeping the pinion angle as constant as possible.

On a triangulated 4 link the uppers bars are placed at an angle to the lowers. When connected securely to the axle and the frame they form a “triangle”. This is what keeps the rear axle centered under the vehicle.

On a parallel style, a “panhard bar” must be used. It runs horizontally across the vehicle connecting the axle to the frame, allowing only up and down movement. Although there are several theories as to which is “better”, in the real world it comes down to available space and preference. A parallel 4 link fits most trucks better because the fuel tank is usually right in front of the axle, inboard of the frame. A parallel is sometimes easier to install because the link bar frame mount is one piece instead of two… less time in placing and welding the upper bar mounts. But a parallel 4 link requires a panhard bar which adds slightly to the expense and can use up valuable space needed for the exhaust system. A panhard bar will also induce a small amount of side to side movement during suspension travel… not enough to feel but it may concern the customer who has an extremely tight tire to fender clearance. With a parallel 4 link you are locked into a sideframe link position… with a triangulated 4 link the lower links can be placed beside the frame or under the frame for clearance purposes.

Either system is very straight forward to install. You will spend more time with the tape measure than the saw or welder. All else being equal, for the absolute rookie, the parallel may be a bit easier to visualize and understand during installation.

Triangulated 4 link (vs. parallel 4 link)

PROS
• NO side to side movement at all… you can run tighter tire to fender clearance.
• Less hardware to buy and install (no panhard bar)
• Allows flexibility in bar placement to avoid obstacles

CONS
• Angled upper bars can interfere with exhaust
• Angled upper bars can interfere with fuel tank on late model trucks
• 4 more attachment points to plot and install (parallel has bar mounts built together)

Why should I put a 4 link under my car? What will a 4 link do better than a leafspring?

In a leafspring suspension, the leafs perform 2 functions. First, they hold the rear axle in the car. They prevent both forward and aft movement and minimize pinion angle change during suspension travel. Secondly, while they are doing this, they also support the load of the vehicle. For an OEM vehicle that has had thousands of hours of development ...