Actually I just had the rear done last weekend at Sears (the only place that
would touch the car) They hooked it up to the rear, but if I remember did
not touch it, in fact I don't believe they had a way to adjust it. I will
take a look at the spec sheet they gave me in a bit.
By the Way, I am 165 Lbs, So I don't believe my substantial arse, is that
big of a factor.
These wheels are of substantial bulk so I will look closer, but will not be
surprised if they could be shaven down.
Do other Spitfires squat like this while backing, and I am only noticing it
due to the fact that mine hit the wheel well, instead of going into it?
Patrick Bowen
-----Original Message-----
From: Nolan Penney [mailto:npenney@mde.state.md.us]
Sent: Friday, June 16, 2000 12:26 PM
To: spitfires@autox.team.net; PABowen@sar.med.navy.mil
Subject: Re: Tire problems
It seems to me that there is something about the rear suspension geometry
that can cause one or both sides of the rear end to rise and fall depending
on the direction of travel, and it has to do with toe in on that side. I
just tried to see it by applying pencil to paper, but I'm not getting it.
This has nothing to do with the rear end squatting when accelerating, that's
a whole different matter.
So, you may want to go in for a good 4 wheel alignment. Don't just do a
thrust angle. That just aligns the front to the rear, while leaving the
rear cockeyed. You'd want a shop that can do all four wheels. It's not
tough, so really just about any shop can do it. I'd go to a speed shop, or
one recommended by a speed shop for one reason though.
You want to be sitting in the car when this is done. I'm presuming your of
some size. This weight has a substantial effect on the alignment of the
dimunitive Spitfire, especially with a rear end geometry like it has. At
the least, you want a place that will allow you to toss your weight in
cement bags on the seat. Though there's no reason not to allow you to sit
there while the technician works around the car.
As for the wheels, I'd be hesitant about shaving them down. The thickness
of the center often has to do with how the spokes or webs are joined to it.
Shaving it can have catastrophic effects, with the center breaking away from
the spokes. I've never experienced that, but everyone tells me it's not
fun. So examine the wheel carefully to see if you can simply shave down
excess material that's being used to create offset, or if it's actually
structural and load bearing.
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