Southern Chassis Works 

FAQ

• Are SCW IFS front ends engineered and tested?

Yes. Unlike our competitors SCW Independent Front Suspension systems are professionally designed, FEA analysed and destructive tested to confirm their strength, durability and suitability for real-world road use and have been tested for VSB14 Compliance.

• What weight rating does the SCW IFS have?

SCW IFS systems offer market-leading load capabilities, with configurations available up to a massive 1,500 kg front axle ratings, along with 820mm roll diameters far and above our opposition. 

• What spindles are used?

SCW uses our own designed and manufactured in house billet spindles to suit the intended vehicle weight, braking package, fitment and performance requirements.

Different spindle configurations may be supplied depending on the application. This allows us to match the front end to the vehicle rather than forcing every build to use a single generic setup.

• What is FEA testing?

Finite Element Analysis is a computer-based engineering process used to identify stresses, movement and potential weak areas within a component or assembly.

It allows the structure to be analysed under simulated loading before physical testing and manufacture. FEA is one part of the overall design and validation process and does not replace correct fabrication, installation or final vehicle approval.

• Has the IFS been destructively tested?

SCW suspension systems have undergone physical and destructive testing as part of the product-development and engineering process.

• Does having billet spindles make my IFS better?

Yes there are many benefits to billet SCW spindles

• Lighter sprung weights
• Faster response times
• Reduced Vehicle weight and axle loads
• No casting impurities 
• Massive 1500 kg weight rated

• Will SCW work with my engineer?

Yes. We encourage customers to speak with their engineer before beginning major modifications.

• Are SCW front ends made in Australia?

Yes. SCW suspension systems are 100 % Australian designed and manufactured by Southern Chassis Works in our Traralgon workshop. 

• What vehicles can SCW manufacture an IFS for?

SCW manufactures front suspension packages for a wide range of Australian and American vehicles, including classic Holdens, Fords, Chevrolets, custom vehicles, street machines and individually constructed vehicles anything with rails we can build it.

• Is the SCW IFS available with coil overs or airbags?

Yes. Depending on the vehicle and application, SCW front ends can be configured for coil over suspension or airbags and even shockwaves.

• Does the IFS include power steering?

Standard on most Front ends, The rack must remain in the designed position unless a change has been approved by SCW.

• How much steering lock does the IFS provide?

Steering lock depends on the rack, steering arms, wheel offset, tyre size, brake package and available clearance inside the guards. Most units provide better lock than standard.

• Will the IFS improve handling?

A correctly installed and aligned SCW IFS will substantially improve:

• Steering response
• Directional stability
• Ride comfort
• Braking control
• Road feel
• Tyre contact
• Engine-bay clearance
• Overall vehicle confidence
• Resale value

The final result also depends on spring rates, shock settings, tyres, rear suspension, weight distribution and wheel alignment.

• Does it reduce bump steer?

The steering rack, steering arms and suspension pickup points are designed as a complete geometry package to control bump steer through the suspension’s operating range.

Changing rack height, spindle type, steering arms or suspension mounting points without approval can introduce unwanted toe change as the suspension moves.

• What brakes are available?

Brake options vary by application and may include:

• Standard brake configurations
• SCW billet hubs
• 310 mm brake packages
• 330 mm brake packages
• Two-piston callipers
• Willwood n Brembo options
• Custom performance-brake packages

Wheel diameter and internal wheel clearance must be checked before selecting larger brakes.

• Can I use my existing brakes?

Possibly. Compatibility depends on the rotor, calliper. Your hubs and spindles are not usable on most front ends.

• What information does SCW need before building my front end?
• Vehicle make, model and year
• Owners contact details
• Set up sheet filled in and returned 
• Brake options confirmed
• Does the IFS need to be installed by a professional?

Yes Professional installation is strongly recommended.

• Does SCW provide installation instructions?

Installation information is available for applicable products and recommend, technical advice is always available.

• What wheel alignment settings should be used?

Alignment settings depend on the vehicle, tyre type, ride height and intended use.

SCW can provide recommended starting specifications for camber, caster and toe. The vehicle should be aligned at its finished ride height with normal operating weight in the vehicle.

• Does changing ride height affect the alignment?

Yes. Ride-height changes can affect camber, toe, roll centre, suspension travel and bump steer.

The vehicle should be set to its intended operating height before the final wheel alignment is completed.

• What warranty is provided?

Warranty coverage applies to eligible SCW-manufactured components when they are correctly installed and used for their intended purpose.

Damage caused by incorrect installation, unauthorised modifications, accidents, overloading, competition use or unsuitable wheel and brake combinations may not be covered. Contact SCW for the warranty terms applicable to your product.

• Why choose an SCW IFS?

An SCW IFS is designed for builders and owners who want more than a generic front-end conversion.

Key benefits include:

• Australian designed and manufactured
• VSB14-focused engineering
• SCW spindle design not a copy cat clone spindle
• FEA analysis
• Physical and destructive tested
• Market-leading weight ratings
• Application-specific spindle options
• In-house CNC-machined components
• Coilover and airbag configurations
• Power-steering options
• Multiple brake upgrades
• Improved handling, braking and ride quality
• Direct support from an experienced Australian manufacturer

SCW

Innovating, not imitating.

Phone : 03 5174 1729
Email : curls@curleys.com.au