What Global West suspension systems are

Global West Suspension Systems is a manufacturer of suspension components and complete suspension kits, primarily for classic and vintage vehicles built before the 1980s. The company makes control arms, coil-over shock absorbers, sway bars, and bolt-together suspension assemblies that replace or upgrade the original equipment on older cars.

Global West does not make suspension parts for modern vehicles. Their focus is retrofitting classic cars with suspension geometry and technology that did not exist when those cars were built. A 1967 Chevelle owner, for example, might buy a Global West kit to replace the car's original leaf springs and drum brakes with coil springs, independent rear suspension, and disc brakes — all engineered to work together as a system.

The company operates as a parts supplier and design house. They do not install suspension systems themselves; they sell kits and components to car owners, restoration shops, and fabricators who do the installation work.

Key Takeaways

  • Global West makes suspension kits and individual components for classic vehicles, not modern cars, and sells them through distributors and direct order.
  • Their kits typically include control arms, shock absorbers, sway bars, and mounting hardware engineered to work as a complete system on a specific vehicle model and year.
  • Installation requires mechanical skill or a professional shop, as the work involves removing original suspension, welding or bolting new mounts, and alignment.
  • Global West suspension upgrades change how a classic car handles, stops, and sits, but do not increase engine power or fuel economy.
  • Pricing varies by vehicle and kit complexity, ranging from a few hundred dollars for individual components to several thousand for a complete front and rear suspension retrofit.

What components come in a typical Global West kit

A complete Global West suspension kit for a classic car usually includes control arms (the links that connect the wheel hub to the frame), coil-over shock absorbers (springs and dampers combined into one unit), sway bars (anti-roll bars that reduce body lean in turns), and all necessary brackets, bushings, and fasteners. Some kits also include new spindles, which are the parts that hold the wheel bearings and brake components.

Kits are built for specific vehicle models and years. A kit for a 1970 Dodge Charger will not fit a 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle because the frame dimensions, wheel mounting points, and steering geometry are different. When you order from Global West, you specify your exact vehicle year, make, and model so the kit matches your car's structure.

Individual components are also sold separately. A shop might order only the front control arms and sway bar from Global West while using other suppliers for shocks or rear suspension parts. This modular approach lets builders mix and match based on budget, performance goals, or existing parts they want to keep.

How installation works and what it requires

Installing a Global West suspension kit is not a bolt-on job for most vehicles. The process typically involves removing the original suspension (springs, shocks, control arms, and sway bar), unbolting or cutting away the original mounting points on the frame, and welding or bolting new mounts in place. The new components are then installed, aligned, and tested.

The time required depends on the vehicle condition and kit complexity. A straightforward front suspension retrofit on a car in good condition might take 20 to 40 hours of labor. A complete front and rear suspension overhaul, especially on a vehicle that has rust or frame damage, can take 60 to 100 hours or more. Professional restoration shops typically charge $75 to $150 per hour, so labor costs alone can range from $1,500 to $15,000.

Some owners attempt installation themselves if they have welding equipment, a lift, and mechanical experience. Most take their vehicle to a shop that specializes in classic car restoration or suspension work. The shop will have the tools, alignment equipment, and informed to may support the suspension is installed correctly and the vehicle handles safely after the work is done.

Why owners choose Global West suspension upgrades

Classic car owners upgrade to Global West suspension for three main reasons: handling, safety, and appearance. Original suspension on cars from the 1960s and 1970s was designed for comfort on smooth highways, not cornering performance. It used soft springs, minimal damping, and a lot of body roll. A Global West kit replaces that with stiffer springs, better shock absorbers, and sway bars that keep the car flatter in turns and more responsive to steering input.

Safety is the second driver. Original brakes on classic cars are often drum brakes with poor stopping power. Many Global West kits are paired with modern disc brake conversions, which stop the car faster and more reliably. Better suspension geometry also improves tire contact with the road, which helps braking and traction.

Appearance is the third factor. Coil-over shocks allow the car to sit lower and more level than original leaf springs. Some owners lower their classic cars for visual effect; others adjust ride height to improve aerodynamics or weight distribution. The new suspension also allows the use of modern wheel designs that would not fit or clear the original suspension geometry.

Cost and what affects the price

Global West kit prices vary widely based on the vehicle and the scope of the upgrade. A front suspension kit for a single-model classic car might cost $1,200 to $3,000. A complete front and rear suspension retrofit for the same vehicle could run $3,500 to $7,000 or more. Individual components — a single control arm, sway bar, or shock absorber — typically cost $200 to $800 each.

Several factors affect pricing. Kits for popular vehicles like Chevrolet Camaros or Dodge Chargers tend to be less expensive because Global West manufactures them in higher volume. Kits for less common vehicles or vehicles with unusual frame geometry cost more because they require more custom engineering. Kits that include more components (front and rear suspension, steering upgrades, brake mounts) cost more than kits that cover only the front end.

Labor costs for installation are separate from the kit price and often exceed the parts cost. A shop will quote you based on the specific vehicle, the condition of the frame and existing suspension, and whether any welding or fabrication is needed. It is common for total suspension upgrade costs (parts plus labor) to range from $4,000 to $15,000 for a complete job on a classic car.

How to find and order Global West components

Global West suspension parts are sold through automotive suppliers and online retailers that specialize in classic car parts. You can also order directly from Global West's website or by phone. When you contact them or a distributor, have your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine size ready — this information determines which kit or components will fit your car.

Before ordering, confirm that the kit is designed for your specific vehicle. A kit listed for "1968–1972 Chevrolet Chevelle" will not work on a 1973 or later Chevelle because the frame changed. If you are unsure whether a kit fits your car, contact the distributor or Global West directly with your vehicle's VIN (vehicle identification number) — they can verify compatibility.

Most kits ship within one to two weeks. Shipping costs vary by kit size and weight; a complete suspension kit typically costs $150 to $400 to ship. Many shops that install suspension kits can also order the parts for you, which sometimes saves on shipping and ensures the correct components arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a Global West suspension kit fit my classic car?

Global West makes kits for specific vehicle models and years. You need to match your exact year, make, and model. If you are unsure, contact Global West or a distributor with your vehicle's VIN — they can confirm whether a kit exists for your car and which one you need.

Can I install a Global West kit myself?

If you have welding equipment, a lift, alignment tools, and mechanical experience, you can attempt installation. Most owners take their car to a professional shop because the work requires precise welding, frame modifications, and alignment to may support the suspension is safe and handles correctly.

Does a suspension upgrade affect my car's engine performance or fuel economy?

No. A suspension upgrade changes how the car handles, stops, and sits, but does not change engine power or fuel consumption. It may slightly improve fuel economy if the car sits lower and has better aerodynamics, but the effect is minimal.

What is the difference between a Global West kit and just replacing worn suspension parts?

Replacing worn original parts restores the car to its factory suspension design. A Global West kit replaces the entire suspension system with modern geometry, springs, and dampers that improve handling, safety, and appearance beyond what the original design offered.

How long does a suspension upgrade take?

A front suspension retrofit typically takes 20 to 40 hours of shop labor. A complete front and rear suspension upgrade can take 60 to 100 hours or more, depending on the vehicle condition and whether frame welding is required. A shop can give you a more precise estimate after inspecting your car.