C2 rear strut rod installation

[Steve D.]

Is it necessary to unbolt the end of the spring from the trailing arm to install the strut rod?
I removed one of the rear shock mounts (new)to file off some material so that the mount would seat properly in the spindle mount. When I tried to reinsert the shock mount, I could not properly align the end of the strut in the spindle mount in such a way as to avoid damaging the shock mount threads. So I removed the cam assembly from the other end of the strut rod and and removed the rod entirely. With the cam end of the strut out of it's bracket, it is easy to slide the shock mount into place. But with the shock mount end in place, the cam end does not align properly. When I first installed the struts, the spring was not yet attached to the trailing arms. I have the half shaft detached from the differential yolk.

Steve

[Joe L.]

Re: C2 rear strut rod installation

Steve-----

It's not necessary to remove the spring from the trailing arm. However, it may be necessary to raise the trailing arm (including raising and "de-arching" the spring) in order to achieve the proper geometry that will allow the installation of the strut rod "at both ends". With the arm "hanging" due to the weight being off the suspension, the geometry usually will not allow for the installation of the strut rods.

[Terry F.]

Re: C2 rear strut rod installation

A couple of things maybe....I think when you unbolted the half shaft it allowed the trailing arm to move out. Just removing the strut will do this also. Now you have to find some way of pulling it back in so that you can get everything to line up. As Joe said, raising the rear end of the car might bring this alignment closer together. I seem to recall someone using a come-along to pull the geometry back in place by attaching it to the trailing arms and pulling them inward. Might have to fashion some flat straps so as not to scratch up the trailing arms, then attach the come-along between the strap. Actually, you can probably attach between the lower shock mounts. That should get it done. Good luck, Terry

[Steve D.]

Thanks

It's good to know that my symptoms are not indicating a bigger problem. I'll work on the geometry.

Steve

[John H.]

Re: Thanks

Steve -

Just jack up the trailing arm to the normal ride height position and it'll go together.