On Wed, 26 Nov 1997, Peter Lucas wrote:
> First- you need a later model spring.
> Second- (2) new half shafts. The later model Spits are a total
> of 1" wider.
Note that the later axles (1" longer each; total increase in track 2")
are NOT necessary. Nice, but not necessary.
> Third- Are you going to press those things yourself?
> (Look up old thread $$$)
What do you need to press, unless you're looking into a complete rebuild
of each rear axle assembly? It's usually easier to buy complete, longer
units (if that's the route you wish to go) and install them complete.
> Fourth- You will most likely run into clearance problems.
> The spring sits a little lower and the axles
>stand
> a little wider. Result-tires hit fenders.
See above comments.
> If your willing to go through all that work, than you should replace
> your shocks, diff mounts, bushings and u-joints as well. This ='s $$$
> It is, however, the route I took on my '64 restoration and I didn't
> notice much of a difference in handeling. A bit less roll but I think
> that an anti roll bar would have given about the same increase in
> performance.
I think that the benefits of the later swing-spring suspension (which
really must be paired with the fatter front anti-roll bar) come mostly "at
the limit"; the swing-spring greatly lessens the tendency of the rear
wheels to "jack" under the car. In more "normal" driving, I wouldn't
expect to notice much of a difference between suspension types.
Meanwhile, it's probably good to replace all those items you mentioned
regardless. There's always a good chance that you'll have been the first
ever to do this!
> If I had to do it over again, I would have replaced the
> shocks with a set of Konis, replaced the mounts, installed urathane
> bushings, new u-joints and an Addco 5/8" anti roll bar. Good tires can
> also make a big difference. Oh yea- If you need to replace your leaf
> spring, I would suggest TRF over Vic Brit. Good luck!
The "classic" option is to simply dearch the original spring somewhat.
Relatively cheap, and makes quite a difference. Upgraded shocks (Koni or
Spax) also are worthwhile if you're serious about driving. And, there's
always those elusive camber compensators! ;-)
--Andy
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