I'm going to have the front end rebuilt on my '79 this spring.

 I'm running the Grand Touring Springs 460 lbs. I like them they handle very well.

460 is fine and I believe rated for small blocks. I believe the higher weight is for big block applications.

550's would be really harsh.  Go with the 460's.

Kevin,

Van Steel is a great company.  They carry quality products at fair prices.  The only thing we have to offer is a front end rebuild kit with the A-arms already rebuilt and ready to bolt in.  The whole kit is $539.00 exchange.  Or, if you want to buy their rebuild kit, we will exchange our rebuilt  A-arms for Your old A-arms and the ball joints and bushings from their kit.  Our charge for that is $250.00.

If you are doing it yourself, be sure to put a chain through the coil spring before you release the ball joint so it can't fly out and hurt something or someone.

Have Fun
Larry

hi all,

Usually an interior compressor works.  Sometimes you need to take it apart and put it together upside down, so the shaft sticks out the shock hole in the lower A-arm. 

Or else get five heavy friends to sit on the frame while you use a floor jack.

Good luck
Larry

thanks larry, i have tried it both ways, turning the jaws around. the shaft is too long and hits the upper a-arm. i was thinking of putting a piece of pipe over the shaft as a spacer from the end of the shaft (the part that has the hex) and the first jaw. that may keep it from extending up toward the upper a-arm. i'll try it tonight an see if it works.

joe