I'm not getting anywhere in the Ram general discussion. I hope I don't tick off the mods by posting in the fabrication section of the forum . I will be doing fabrication on the truck anyway.

I did a quick search and did not find anything on here and google.
Does anyone have experience in both the 4x4 five bar link on the pre 2012 ram and the three bar on the 2013 Ram?
As every one knows the Ford and Ram share the same type of suspension
I have a 1995 4x4 Ram. I am putting a 2010 Ford axle under the truck after I drill the bolt holes for 8x6.5. My plans with the front axle is to put a 3rd gen ram track bar on and swap the knuckles out to 1992-1997 Ford knuckles to gain lockout hubs, spindles and duel piston calipers.
I have the opportunity to get a three bar with the axle off of a Ford for less than $300 and I don't know if there is a big enough improvement in handling to merit the change. There would also be the benefit of larger disc brakes not having to drill out the rear axle hubs since both the front and rear would match and I could use the track bar from the Ford.

So, anyone know if the suspension change is significantly better in the newer Ram three link vs the five bar?
Thanks in advance.

 

i just measured the two trucks and I'll have to put a 2.5inch spacer on each side of the frame where the springs go. The added width should increase stability. Where the radius arms mount is the same width Ford and 2nd gen ram. Bonus, the transmission mount is in the same spot as the suspension mount for strength.