1966 C2 Rear Spring Height - Am I too High?

[Richard M.]

Re: 1966 C2 Rear Spring Height - Am I too High?

Bob, Unfortunately, nowhere in the Service Manuals is the procedure noted regarding ensuring the full weight of the car and a roll-out performed before torquing the 4 spring bolts. By applying full weight, the entire spring assembly will then lay more flat up into the carrier perch.

The torque spec is outlined in the AIMs and CSM's, and IIRC is 55-75 lbs/ft. I like to keep it on the low end typically. I always fear these bolts and fortunately my fear has saved many carrier covers and cases. As Bob mentioned, just get them snug with a wrench to start.

Larry also brings out a important aspect regarding the forward 2 spring attach bolts where they thread into the carrier case. Make accurate measurements checking assembled spring thickness, spring plate and even lockwasher thickness. Check the threaded carrier depth and lengths of bolts before attachment. Cut the bolts if necessary.

This post outlines a case where I had to cut bolts, using original bolts after restoring a original spring using new liners.

https://www.forums.ncrs.org/showthread.php?108979-1967-Body-Lift-for-Chassis-amp-Frame-Restoration&p=765355#post765355

I also had the same issue recently using reproduction bolts with a reproduction spring. I had to cut the tips of the bolts apx 1/4".

Rich

[Bob W.]

Re: 1966 C2 Rear Spring Height - Am I too High?

Richard Thanks for the info we can always count on you and the other members for our needed help. KEEP ON POSTING!!!!!!!!!!!

Bob

[Edmund C.]

Re: 1966 C2 Rear Spring Height - Am I too High?

Great responses and many thanks to all for the help. Leaving tomorrow for Frisco. Best, Ned

[Edmund C.]

Re: 1966 C2 Rear Spring Height - Am I too High?

Gents: Can someone please recommend a C2 rear leaf spring supplier that has a really good product? As many of you know from the Frico event, the Volunteer Corvette rear leaf spring I installed last week gave my Vette a retro jacked-up '70s High School look. Leif, you had mentioned a company that has an outstanding product. I need to start getting this Vette headed in the right direction. Any guidance on a superior leaf spring would be appreciated. Many thanks. Best, Ned

[Leif A.]

Re: 1966 C2 Rear Spring Height - Am I too High?

Ned,
America's Finest has a very nice, reproduction spring that may be the best out there. http://www.corvetteusa.com/wheels1.htm
Eaton, also, makes a very nice spring.

[Richard M.]

Re: 1966 C2 Rear Spring Height - Am I too High?

Thanks Bob......

Ned, Remember when we were looking at your spring the other day in Frisco? Remove those 2 band clamps as they're only there for shipping. Do a roll-out and then check height again. Also remember you can change the outer spring bolts to a longer threaded (use Grade 8)type and tighten the nuts higher. You must use locknuts as no provision for cotter pins. This can bring the ride height to spec.

Leif, I just used a Eaton 9 leaf on a '66 and it was too high also. I had to use the longer bolts.

Rich

[Leif A.]

Re: 1966 C2 Rear Spring Height - Am I too High?

Ned,
As a sidebar to my other post (#20) you may want to call America's Finest about the 9-leaf spring for your car. After looking at their website I don't see it listed. It is a fairly new product for them (within the last year). Be SURE you get the 9-leaf and NOT the 7-leaf.

[Donald H.]

Re: 1966 C2 Rear Spring Height - Am I too High?

I mentioned the shipping clamps in my post #7, guess you did see that.

I have the Eaton Detroit on my 67 and am happy with them.

[Michael J.]

Re: 1966 C2 Rear Spring Height - Am I too High?

As a chassis judge I would never say "too high", just excessive positive camber...........