<VV> Re: [fastvair] Re: Warren's ex-Bill Thomas Car

[Levair@aol.com]

In a message dated 3/19/04 9:52:56 PM Eastern Standard Time, JWCorvair writes:

<< What can you tell us about the suspension modifications? >>

The springs are quite heavy. They remind me of ramp side springs.
  All of the pivot points are metal bushed. All of the engine and transaxle 
is solid mounted. The car is lowered to achieve significant negative camber.
   From this car and old pictures, it seems that not much significance was 
given to extreme lowereing in those days for any car . It does have a rather 
wimpy adjustable front anti roll bar. I can't see how it could be effective with 
the stiff springs. However, that is another item that was constantly underging 
change. According to the records, the springs and bars were changed at nearly 
every event. The gear ratios were frequently changed also: therefore the 
quickly removeable (straight out the back) drive train. 
   The sub frams and a-arms are extensively  lightened. There are provisions 
for double shocks on the rear ( no good shocks were available in those days) , 
but only large singles are currently fitted. 
   All of the suspension and brakes ( late model drums with GM metallic 
linings) are virtually brand new as it only ran Monterey after restoration in '87. 
The steering is three turns with standard length steering arms.
    I didn't get the engine and transaxle, it probably went back to whoever 
donated it, , so am preparing it as in '69 to the best of my knowledge. 
   I spent considerable time talking to Doug Roe at Monterey in '87 ( I 
should have spent much, much more) . When discussing the then current non-historic 
restoration of the car ( in my eyes) , He dismissed it saying it was different 
all of the time anyway. He was the same age then as I am now ---shudder.

Warren