Air Springs on 1982-1983 lower arms but

[demonswede]

1984 uppers.

This is actually a M7 Q, but,

My 1984 BillBlass was converted to coils by using 1982-1983 lower front Conti suspension arms, (1982-1983 Conti springs - all I suppose & lowered).

I wish to convert the car back to air springs.

Can I use the 1982-1989 lower Conti suspension arms or can thwy be converted?

What are the real differences (height and others) - any experts here?

[Nick]

From what I have seen for control arms, the control arms for air springs have a unique seat for the base of the air spring. For the fronts, the seat is flat vs cupped on a normal arm. You would be able to use 1984-1987 Continental parts though because they share the same suspension with the Mark VII.

Stock height to stock height, Pro 5 Oh might be able to provide you with at least one number.

[demonswede]

Can I just make & plate with a center hole for the 1982-1983 conti arms & still use them with the air springs?

[Nick]

I would think that would work, but you would need to mirror the stock air spring arm very closely to get good suspension geometry. I'm not sure how much it would matter, but it's easier to copy Ford than to check all the math. :D

[demonswede]

You have a point here - if the lower spring seats are located differently on these two suspension arms.