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Project Rocky: QA1 Coilover Suspension Conversion

Chris Hamilton . October 22, 2026 . c10 . Chris Hamilton
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AS SEEN IN OUR C10 Builders Guide Fall 2026 ISSUE – Buy Now!

Lifted to Lovered

Project Rocky has never been about leaving things alone. From the start, this ’79 Chevy C10 has been our test bed for trying new ideas, pushing combinations, and showing what works in the real world. In our last round of mods, we took a swing at something you don’t see every day: lifting a 2WD squarebody. It gave the truck a whole new look, more presence, and a stance that definitely turned heads.

But here’s the honest truth: while it looked right, it didn’t drive the way we wanted.

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QA1 Coilover Suspension
Here is the last look at a lifted Rocky. It looks killer but rides rough, so it’s time for change.

The ride quality just wasn’t where it needed to be. For a truck that we genuinely want to drive for long distances, attend events, and enjoy while behind the wheel, both comfort and handling are just as important as its stance. So instead of forcing it to work, we made the call to tear the suspension down and go in a completely different direction. This time, we’re going all-in on a full coilover conversion from QA1.

That means the leaf springs are coming out, the old setup is getting scrapped, and we’re replacing it with a modern, bolt-in suspension system designed to perform. QA1 has built a solid reputation for dialing in ride quality and adjustability, and this kit brings that into the squarebody world. With adjustable coilovers, updated geometry, and a setup designed for real handling, this project isn’t just about lowering the truck; it’s about making it drive like something built today.

QA1 Coilover Suspension
The upgraded leaf spring suspension has a purpose, but not for our truck. We want to rip this truck around the streets, so why do we need that much ground clearance?

While we’re changing things up, we’re not stopping at just the suspension. Rocky is getting a full set of Wilwood brakes at all four corners, a set of custom staggered 20-inch Schott wheels, and fresh Atturo performance tires to tie it all together. The goal is simple: better ride, better stopping, and a setup that can actually carve corners instead of just cruising straight.

 This is just the beginning of a multi-story series. In this issue, we’re breaking down all the parts and what makes this combination work. In the next issue, we’ll get into the install with Nick Provost from ProBros Hot Rods in Oklawaha, Florida, and show you exactly how it all comes together.

QA1 Coilover Suspension

Before any major change to your build, I highly recommend you have a rendering made. It’s a small cost for a bit of confidence. We had Rendered Rides produce our renders!

For the front, we will install QA1’s coilover system for 1963–’87 C10 trucks, which replaces the factory suspension with a bolt-in setup featuring tubular control arms and adjustable coilovers, giving ride height adjustability, improved handling, and the ability to dial in compression and rebound for a much smoother, more controlled driving experience.
QA1 Coilover Suspension
In the rear, QA1’s rear suspension system for 1973–’87 C10 trucks replaces the factory leaf spring setup with a complete bolt-in coilover and torque arm design, delivering improved traction, reduced axle wrap, and full double-adjustable shocks to dial in ride quality and handling exactly how you want it.
Once the stance is set, we will bolt up these Schott GTB wheels in the tungsten finish to combine a bold multi-spoke design with a brushed center and polished lip for a clean, high-end finish that’s fully customizable in sizing and fitment.
QA1 Coilover Suspension
We ordered a set of 20×8.5 wheels up front and 20x11s for the rear. We will talk about offsets and backspacing in the next issue!
Tires are super important on a corner carver, so we chose a set of Atturo AZ850. These tires offer strong cornering grip, solid straight-line stability, and reduced road noise thanks to their asymmetric tread. Final sizes will be shown in the next issue!
For spindles, Wilwood’s ProSpindle kit for 1971–’87 C10 trucks delivers a 2.5-inch drop while maintaining proper steering geometry and uses forged aluminum construction and integrated hub assemblies to provide increased strength, improved braking support, and a solid, no-flex mounting platform for high-performance brake systems.
Brakes are important! Wilwood’s big brake kits for C10 trucks deliver a complete bolt-on upgrade with large-diameter rotors, multi-piston forged calipers, and matched components designed to dramatically improve stopping power, heat resistance, and pedal feel. The kits also maintain compatibility with factory master cylinders and modern wheel setups.
QA1 Coilover Suspension
These brake kits also include radial mount caliper brackets and all the necessary hardware to complete the installation.
This rendering gives us a clear vision of where Project Rocky is headed—low, aggressive, and built to handle with a modern stance that finally matches how we want it to drive. With the QA1 coilover setup, Wilwood brakes, and new wheel and tire combo coming together, we’re counting down the days until we can get this truck back on the road and take it out for its first real cruise.
For now, the truck is all prepped in the Probros Hot Rod surgical center in Oklawaha, Florida. Our surgeon Nick is choosing his tools and putting on his gloves. See you in the next issue!

 

 

 

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Chris Hamilton

Chris Hamilton is an automotive journalist, editor, and lifelong truck enthusiast with extensive experience covering custom truck builds, fabrication, performance upgrades, aftermarket products, and a ...

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