I am working on my '79 D100 Custom 318 RWD and I have been trying to figure out why the rear shocks are mounted at an angle, and what the best way is to upgrade the suspension to install the shocks closer to vertical. I have done some research into shocks and the preferred install would be vertical with a slight forward tilt and as close to the wheels as possible. Any help would be appreciated.

 

If I remember the way they are mounted, it's to minimize rear axle torque under load from the engine. Dodge kept it like that for many years as it's effective.