Torque Arm question(s)...

[DavidBoren]

First post, so be gentle. I just found this website through searching for suspension design theory. Read Ron Sutton's write-ups, and figured I was in the right place.

Now, this is more a question of general design theory, pertaining to the 3-link rear suspension and a torque arm. Although I am just looking for basic design principles and theory, the purpose of this research is to build a rear suspension for a standard cab, long bed 1982 2wd S-10 for use as a daily driver and auto-X vehicle. Spirited driving, with emphasis on neutral/predictable handling. This is not an all out race suspension question or build. The compromise is that I will not be slamming/bagging/dropping the truck to the point that it is too low to use as a truck. I still want to be able to go over speed bumps without worry and haul couches, etc.

My question(s):
Knowing that a torque arm will be incorporated into the design from the start, is it best to mount the lower and upper links parallel to the ground, and let the forward mounting point of the torque arm dictate the instant center?

Would you want the torque arm forward mounting point to be level (in side view) with the upper link arm, or the lower links?

Would you want the torque arm mounted level (from side view) with the lower links on the axle?

I plan to make everything as adjustable as possible, with an adjustable panhard bar centering the axle laterally. And I plan to use the rod end links throughout all linking points. The forward end of the torque arm will be in a sliding sleeve, not the shackle/dogbone set-up. Upper 3-link arm will be offset to the passenger side. All mounting points will be double shear, using 1/4" plate, with adjustment holes drilled 1" apart.

I do not know about where it would be best to mount the shocks. I want to use coilovers front and rear. I plan on keeping the truck at its stock ride height, just lowering the rear to be level. I would like to set up the suspension properly to avoid needing a rear sway bar, but I'm not 100% opposed to adding one if I need to.

Other than that, weight distribution efforts will be made to lessen the forward bias associated with pickup trucks. Fiberglass fenders and hood, mounting the engine further back, manual brakes and steering. Still keeping climate control. This is not a V8 swap. Symmetrical disc brakes with 12" rotors and dual piston calipers, dialed in with an adjustable proportioning valve.

Well, that is the plan so far. I am just trying for a nice neutral, easy to handle truck that I can drive confidently every day, and have fun on the track on the weekends. Any help would be greatly appreciated.