Convert A Swing Axle To An IRS

Ask AndyCategory: TransmissionConvert A Swing Axle To An IRS
Michael Glass asked 5 years ago

I’d like to convert a swing axle to an IRS system. What parts do I need? I have the gearbox and the axles.

1 Answers
Michael Glass answered 5 years ago

Hi Ken,

To give you better info I would need the year of the chassis/floor pan and the year of the IRS transmission, but I will answer what I can at this time.

If your floor pan is a 1962 to 1968 and your IRS transmission is a 1969-1972, then all the mounts, nose cone and hockey stick will line up and bolt right in! Next you will be changing the swing axle torsion spring plates and torsion springs. I find it best to buy everything from the same donor car. We do have complete used take out IRS kits available here at So. Cal. Imports. Please call and talk to me if you need this.

You will need to buy IRS suspension arm pivot pockets and a fixture tool to align, cut and weld the pivot pockets into their correct position. I have done this job before on cars. It is not hard work, but you do need to know how to weld and set up a suspension to do it right! Don’t try and take short cuts or you just might find yourself cutting is all out and starting over! I also recommend our spring plate/torsion tool. See links below:
IRS Pivot Jig Tool
Spring Plate Torsion Bar Tool
IRS Pivot Pocket

Thanks, Andy