Thread: Setting Ride Height
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12-28-2004 04:00 PM #1
Shawn,
There's lots of good information in that link that Streets posted. Some of it's too technical for someone with zero (or close to it) suspension knowledge, but it's worth a read or two.
Some simplifications, though. Your lower A-frame needs to be parallel to the ground. That sets the absolute ride height of the car. From there, it's a matter of getting a spring with the correct rate and length to make sure that the A-frame is level when the car is on the ground and fully loaded. That's never super easy on a modified car unless you know the exact weight. In your shoes, I'd try the springs that came with the car - or go get a junk yard set from a V-8 Camaro of the same year. A small block would probably work, since your engine will be further back than a stock Camaro. Put them in place and see what happens. You can always cut the springs a bit (I never cut more than one coil) for a final adjustment or change to a stronger or weaker spring rate.
By the way, spring rate is measured in inches of compression per 100 lbs. For example, a 300# spring will compress 1" under a 300# load.
There are many, many other variables to an independent front suspension, and how well yours is set up depends on how much attention the builder paid to those variables.
I suggest you read Techinspector's post on front suspensions in that thread over and over until you understand it, then take some measurements on your front end to see how well it's set up. If you don't, and it doesn't steer or drive well, you'll be re-doing it later and kicking yourself.Jack
Gone to Texas
Dammit, another good ol boy gone. Condolence to the family. RIP Mike
RIP Mike Frade, aka 34_40