<VV> Re: Early Model springs

[Bryan Blackwell]

Bill made an excellent list.  I would add a couple notes here:

On Wednesday, March 24, 2004, at 03:57 PM, Bill Elliott wrote:

> 1. Make sure bearings, balljoints, tierods, & bushings are in good 
> shape and alignment is correct.

Having the car in good repair to begin with is huge.  A tight Corvair 
is amazingly better than a worn out one.

> 2. Add a poly pitman arm bushing

I think he means nylon or delrin.  Most of them are worn out - see 
point 1.  The aftermarket ones will last a long time and it's an easy 
job.

> 3. Add quality shocks (Bilsteins, Carerra, Koni, or KYB)

I'd move this below tires *if* the existing shocks are good.  If they 
are shot or questionable then do them first.

> 4. Add 14 or 15" rims and sticky tires (V-rated or better).

If you want sticky, look for 140 wear.  This will keep you in a "street 
tire" class should you run the car in a competitive event.  If this is 
your daily driver, they may wear out too fast, but the 140 wear point 
is a pretty good match for a weekend car.

> 5. Add fast steering arms (and realign) or box&arms

Note the new steering boxes available from Silicone Wire Systems that 
drop in to an early.  A *brand new* fast ratio box for $300 just can't 
be beat if you want quicker steering.  I'm going to get one for the 
Lakewood.

> 6. Add a '64 rear suspension with the transverse spring.
> 7. Add a front anti sway bar.
> 8. Then (and only them) consider cutting or changing springs. (for the 
> street, 1 full coil is all you'll want to
> cut)
>
Be aware that spring height affects the rear camber on an early, be 
sure to consult an experienced early owner before cutting the rear 
springs.  Fronts can be safely cut one coil from stock height.  You 
might take a look at my web site for other thoughts.

--
Bryan Blackwell bryan@skiblack.com
http://autoxer.skiblack.com/
   Corvairs: '61 Lakewood, '64 Greenbrier, '65 Corsa, '66 Corsa
   '69 Road Runner, '97 Ford F-150, '99 Neon R/T
"Why do something if you're not going to obsess about it?"