<VV> LM spring replacement

[Sethracer@aol.com]

In a message dated 1/6/2005 2:53:28 P.M. Pacific Standard Time,  
Modelerdc@aol.com writes:

I am  planning of replacing the rear springs on my 65 Corsa. I have a pair of 
low  milage springs off of a parts car. Are the rear springs the same left 
and  right or are they handed? Any suggestions about the best way to do this 
would  also be appreciated.


The left and rights are the same on the late models. It isn't easy to  
replace them, but it is easier than on an early! Here is how I did it. I removed  
the shock absorber with the car up in the air on jack stands. Leaving the tires  
on the car and the emergency brake on tight! The suspension will droop, but  
not enough for spring removal or replacement. Unless you are installing cut  
springs for lowering, then they tend to fall out! <grin> I slid a 24" long  
wooden two by four in at 90 degrees to the wheel, and held it up against the  
wheelwell and the inner fender seam. I then lifted up my lightweight Harbor  
freight aluminum floor jack and set it on the top of the tire, under the two by  
four.  I then jacked the wheel down far enough so that I could remove the  old 
spring and slide the new one in. The raising part of the jack was inboard of  
the fenderwell enough to be stable, the bottom just pushed the tire down  far 
enough to put the spring back in. Now - Don't do anything foolish here. The  
tire must be rock solid so it won't turn, and the  two by four placed just  
right to spread the upper load. The tire will swing forward a bit as it goes  
down. Expect that. Also, make sure you don't over-extend the rear brake hoses.  
But it works. And be careful!  - Seth
 
Seth  Emerson
Sethracer@aol.com
C's the day! Corvair, Camaro,  Corvette