Monty,
Welcome to the list. I was initiated to midgetdom in much the same way you
were. Here is my advice, and I am sure you will find some one on the list to
echo the sentiment.
Re-bush the rear end (~$10-20) a 90 minute job
- rear shackle mount (close to gas tank)
- between the leaf springs and the shock mounting
The improvement in ride feel is well worth the money.
Shocks:
Several different schools of thought (in order of relative cost):
(a) top off the oil in the shocks (frequently, if there is a leak)
(b) install remanufactured shocks ~80-90 each (any confirmation)
(c) go with the SPAX conversion to gas filed tube shocks
I went with (a) for the front end shocks. I'm happy with my choice.
Note: The front shock serves as the upper control arm for the ride and
steering of the midget. This was a second reason to go with a remanuf. shock.
If the car has been setting for 17 years.
(a) replace rubber bushes
(b) install remanuf. shocks (?)
(c) check the rear leaf springs: make sure they are tensioned equally. By
this I mean at least the same number of shackles on each leaf spring. You
might want to have them tensioned equally by a shop.
Check the hydraulics and fuel delivery system after the midget's extended
sleep.
Jeff
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