Top 3 Front Suspensions for Drag Racers: Chris Alston’s Chassisworks

Weight Watchers

In racing, the power-to-weight ratio makes all the difference in the world. But what about how your suspension handles that weight? In drag racing, being able to control weight transfer, even at just the front end, will help to drop precious tenths off you ET. Here are 3 front suspension go-to’s for drag racers from Chris Alston’s Chassisworks.

Bolt-In Shock Upgrades

Don’t overlook the benefits of simply adding bolt-in adjustable shocks or coil-overs to your street car. Upgrading to bolt-in coil-overs will also give you more options for spring rates and ride-height. Sitting a little further into the shocks travel with a lighter spring gives you more extension travel to work with to help prevent shocking the tires and breaking traction.

Suspension and Subframe Clip Systems

Taking the next step to a bolt-on or weld-in front subframe system is recommended as horsepower increases beyond what the stock chassis and suspension can reliably handle. Benefits can include a stiffened chassis, reduced weight and a host of additional component options, including side-mounts for engine swaps, bolt-on motor- and mid-plates, and improvements to suspension components and geometry.

These weld-in front frames, available in 3×2”-box or 1-5/8”-round tube versions, lean more toward the strip than the street and are a great option for that big-block pro street build or those wanting to remove some significant weight from the front end.

Strut Clip Systems

The strut front end is the choice that checks all the boxes for getting you down the track as fast as possible. Rigid tubular design, extremely lightweight (typically 125 to 150 lb with suspension and brakes), maximum engine bay room and increased extension travel over A-arm suspensions. Bolt-on Camaro/Nova version shown, with weld-on clips available for other car and truck models.