First off guys here's an update on my truck search.. I took 2 in for inspection today and they both checked out great!!
And I'm really leaning towards a Black 03.. hopefully it will be in my hands soon!! Time to see what the dealer is made of
Rear Questions:
What is the actual NET drop the Belltech leafs give you?
Three inch on 02's. Four inch on 03's which are 1" higher due to helper springs being added for these models.
Could I run Belltech leafs and drop shackles (for just another inch) and be able to avoid a c-notch?
You could, but max additional drop height from these would be 1/2 to 3/4". Cut or low profile bump stops are a must , plus you need shock extenders, and if you still have stock shocks, best to upgrade to Lightning Spec Bilsteins all corners. You're going to be border line C-Notch and not sure of the ride quality.
Using the pancake bumpstops how much travel would I have.. now bad is the ride/how much bottoming out am I going to be doing?
Comments above.
Should I run QA1's or are Bilsteins still okay?
If this will be your daily driver, then I vote for L Spec Bilsteins all around.
If I installed just leafs and/or shackles and did nothing to the front, there's no reason for alignment, right?
Right. But you will not a level stance, the back would be approx 1.75" lower than front.
Front Questions
What's the best setup to sit right in the front (no gap, no tire tuck) - Drop spindles and 1"-1.5" drop coils? I'd prefer to go as low here with no rubbing!
I have a 2/4 drop with a Belltech 2" Pro Drop Coil Spring Kit front and Belltech Drop Leaf Spring rear. My front rubs when turning sharply or too fast into inclined or dipped drives and roadways. With two inch drop spindles and cut or drop coils, your tires will likely rip the inner well liners out, you will certainly need to trim the inside of the fender flares.
I'd like to pick up just the rear tailgate portion of the 03 pinstripe. Who knows where I can get this!
Can't help here.
Thanks guys!