Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our chassis systems, suspension technology, build process, and what makes a Patriot Chassis different from anything else on the market.
Everything you need to know about our chassis systems, suspension technology, build process, and what makes a Patriot Chassis different from anything else on the market.
A restomod (restoration + modification) chassis replaces your classic truck's original frame with a modern, engineered platform that accepts your original body. It gives you the look and character of a vintage truck with the ride quality, handling, braking, and safety of a modern vehicle. If your classic 4x4 has a rusted, bent, or worn-out frame — or if you want modern suspension geometry, coilover shocks, disc brakes, and a platform that can handle 35” or 37” tires — a restomod chassis is the foundation of that build.
Patriot Chassis specializes in 4x4 restomod chassis for the 47-55 Chevy, 58-61 Chevy Apache, 67-72 Chevy/GMC C/K Series, 73-87 Chevy trucks, the K5 Blazer and Jimmy (our Independence Series), 67-73 and 73-79 Ford trucks, 65-77 and 78-96 Ford Bronco, the Dodge Power Wagon D-Series (our Type D platform), and many more. Each chassis is purpose-built for four-wheel-drive applications with independent front suspension, triangulated 4-link rear, and full drivetrain integration.
Independent front suspension allows each front wheel to move up and down independently of the other. On a stock solid-axle classic truck, when one wheel hits a bump, the force transfers to the opposite wheel through the rigid axle beam. IFS eliminates this by giving each wheel its own suspension travel, which dramatically improves ride quality, handling, steering response, and off-road traction.
Our IFS system uses an Ultra4 desert racing-inspired Uni-Ball design that delivers 16 inches of usable wheel travel. That's not a theoretical number — it's real, measured travel under full articulation. The geometry is specifically engineered for heavy 4x4 trucks running large tires, not adapted from a passenger car platform like a Mustang II swap.
A triangulated 4-link uses four control arms — two upper links angled inward and two lower links running parallel — to locate the rear axle. The triangulated geometry of the upper links eliminates the need for a separate Panhard bar or Watts link to control lateral movement. This means fewer parts, more travel, better geometry, and reduced roll steer.
Our triangulated 4-link design delivers 15 inches of rear wheel travel with equal-length upper and lower links that minimize roll steer throughout the full range of suspension movement. Combined with 2.5” Fox coilover shocks (or our patent-pending Patriot Air Shock system), the rear suspension provides confident handling on the highway and serious capability off-road.
A Mustang II swap takes the front crossmember and suspension from a 1974-78 Ford Mustang II and grafts it onto a classic truck frame. It's a popular budget option because the parts are cheap and widely available, but it has fundamental limitations for 4x4 trucks:
Every Patriot Chassis component is purpose-engineered for 4x4 truck weight, 4WD drivetrain integration, and the loads that come with running 35” or 37” tires on rough terrain. We don't repurpose passenger car parts and call them custom.
Yes. Our chassis is designed from the ground up to accommodate 35” and 37” tires without rubbing, body lift kits, or fender modifications. The IFS geometry, frame width, steering linkage, and suspension travel are all engineered with large tire clearance as a design requirement — not an afterthought. We specify the proper wheel offset and backspacing for each platform, and the drivetrain components (CV shafts, unit bearings, differentials) are rated for the additional load and rotational mass of larger tires.
Our chassis is designed to accept a wide range of modern powertrains. The most popular choice is an LS-based engine package (LS3, L83, L86, etc.) paired with a 4L80E or 6L90E automatic transmission. The modular design also allows you to start with an LS-based package and effortlessly switch to a Cummins diesel later without major chassis modifications.
Transfer case options include the NP205, NP241, and Atlas. Front and rear differential options include the AAM 9.25” IFS front (with GMC one-ton unit bearings and CV shafts for serviceability), AAM 11.5” rear, standard corporate 14-bolt, and Ford 9-inch. We'll help you choose the right combination for your build goals — whether that's a daily-driven restomod, a trail rig, or a show truck.
The Patriot Air Shock is the only patent-pending heavy-duty air shock on the market designed specifically for off-road 4x4 applications. It's machined from 7075-T6 billet aluminum with a nitride-treated tube and hard chrome piston rod, delivering a 5,000 lb load capacity with over 22 inches of stroke.
What truly sets it apart is infinite tunability. By adjusting air pressure, you can dial the force curve from coil-like (progressive, plush) to leaf-like (linear, firm) or anywhere in between. Traditional coilover shocks give you one spring rate. Leaf packs give you another. The Patriot Air Shock replaces both with a single, adjustable unit that adapts to whatever you're doing — highway cruising, loaded towing, or rock crawling.
The Patriot Air Shock is engineered for a broad range of vehicles and applications:
The shock mounts and dimensions are application-specific. Submit an air ride request with your vehicle details and we'll confirm fitment and recommend the right configuration.
Yes. Unlike traditional air bags or air springs that can limit suspension articulation, the Patriot Air Shock is a full-travel shock absorber. It maintains the same wheel travel as a conventional coilover — over 22 inches of usable stroke — while adding the adjustability and load-leveling benefits of an air system. You get the best of both worlds: air suspension ride quality and towing capability with no compromise on off-road articulation.
Our modular chassis system lets you build in stages at your own pace — we call it “Legos for adults.” Instead of committing to a complete chassis up front, you can start with the foundation and add components as your budget and timeline allow:
Each stage is engineered to integrate seamlessly with the next. You can build Stage 1 this year, add Stage 2 next year, and complete Stage 3 when you're ready. The design also allows you to start with an LS engine and later switch to a Cummins diesel without major re-engineering.
Lead times depend on the scope of your build:
Contact us with your project details for a specific timeline estimate. We don't overpromise and underdeliver.
Both options are available. Our modular chassis and component kits are designed to be installed by experienced builders with proper fabrication equipment — a lift, welding capability, and standard hand tools. We provide mounting specifications and are available by phone to walk you through any installation questions.
If you'd prefer a turn-key build where we handle everything from chassis to paint to powertrain, you can ship or trailer your truck to our shop in Ponderay, Idaho. Many customers do a hybrid approach: they install the chassis and drivetrain themselves, then bring the truck to us for final assembly, alignment, and tuning.
We currently engineer chassis for a wide range of classic truck platforms:
And many more. If your truck isn't on this list, reach out — we're always expanding platform coverage and may be able to accommodate custom requests.
Pricing depends on the platform, configuration, and how much of the build you want us to handle. Because every project is different — different truck, different powertrain, different goals — we don't publish one-size-fits-all prices. What we can tell you is that our modular stage system was specifically designed to make builds more accessible. Instead of a single large investment, you can spread the cost across stages as your budget allows.
The best way to get accurate pricing is to submit a chassis request or call us at (509) 675-7083. We'll discuss your truck, your goals, and your budget, then put together a detailed, no-pressure quote. We believe in transparency — you'll know exactly what you're getting and what it costs before any work begins.
We use American-sourced materials throughout our chassis and component line:
Every welded joint is TIG or MIG welded by certified fabricators using fixture tables and jigs to ensure repeatable, consistent geometry across every chassis we build.
Everything is designed, machined, fabricated, welded, and assembled at our shop in Ponderay, Idaho. We don't outsource manufacturing overseas. We don't resell imported parts under our label. When you buy a Patriot Chassis product, it was made in America by the same team that engineered it. Our facility includes CNC laser cutting, press brakes, TIG and MIG welding stations, a precision fixture table for jig-based assembly, and powder coating capabilities.
Yes. We stand behind every product we build. Our manufactured steel chassis components and suspension parts carry a warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. We use premium materials, certified welders, and fixture-based assembly specifically so we can confidently warranty our work. Wear items (bushings, rod ends, seals) are covered for a defined period and are available as replacement parts.
For specific warranty terms on your build or component order, ask us during the quoting process. We're straightforward about what's covered and for how long — no fine print surprises.
Solid axle connects both front wheels with a single rigid beam. It's simple, strong, and has been the standard for off-road trucks for decades. The trade-off is ride quality: every bump on one side affects the other, and on-road handling is compromised by the weight of the axle assembly.
Independent front suspension (IFS) allows each wheel to move independently. This dramatically improves ride quality, steering precision, high-speed stability, and traction on uneven terrain. The trade-off historically has been complexity and durability — but our Ultra4-inspired IFS design addresses both with heavy-duty Uni-Ball joints, DOM tubing control arms, and geometry proven in desert racing.
We offer both IFS and solid axle configurations because the right choice depends on your build goals. A dedicated rock crawler may prefer a solid axle for maximum simplicity. A daily-driven restomod that also hits the trails will benefit enormously from IFS. We'll help you choose.
We welcome shop visits by appointment. Our facility is located at 24 Emerald Industrial Park Road, Ponderay, Idaho 83852, and we're open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If you're planning a trip to the Sandpoint area or passing through Northern Idaho, give us a call and we'll set up a time to walk you through the shop, show you chassis in various build stages, and discuss your project in person.
Yes. We regularly attend events including the Brothers Truck Show and other classic truck and off-road gatherings. Shows are a great opportunity to see our chassis and components up close, talk to the team, and meet other builders in the community. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for announcements about upcoming events and shows.
Pro touring traditionally refers to classic vehicles upgraded with modern suspension, braking, and powertrain to deliver contemporary performance. In the 4x4 world, a pro touring build takes a classic truck like a K5 Blazer or 67-72 C/K and gives it modern chassis geometry, IFS, coilover or air suspension, disc brakes, and a current-generation powertrain — all while preserving the original body and character. It's the best of both eras: classic style with modern capability.
Patriot Chassis is one of the few companies focused specifically on 4x4 pro touring and restomod builds. Most of the industry focuses on 2WD hot rods and street cars. We build for trucks that need to perform on the trail, on the highway, and at the show — all three.
Still have questions? We'd love to hear from you.
Request a custom chassis quote, explore our modular build system, or browse our catalog of suspension components and DIY products.