65 variable front springs

[Stephen B.]

For starters, am I correct that the standard, small block 65 suspension had the 12 coil, variable spring? And these type of springs continued through the early C-3's? Where can you purchase these? Many posts recommend Moog, Eaton or Long Island Corvette. The picture on LI's web-site shows a non-variable spring. Same for pictures of Moog and Eaton springs. How can I be sure that any of these companies will provide the proper spring? Are there any other suppliers with the correct spring?

Thanks in advance

[Joe L.]

Re: 65 variable front springs

For starters, am I correct that the standard, small block 65 suspension had the 12 coil, variable spring? And these type of springs continued through the early C-3's? Where can you purchase these? Many posts recommend Moog, Eaton or Long Island Corvette. The picture on LI's web-site shows a non-variable spring. Same for pictures of Moog and Eaton springs. How can I be sure that any of these companies will provide the proper spring? Are there any other suppliers with the correct spring?

Thanks in advance

Stephen-------


Variable rate coil springs were used from 1964-82 except for F-40/F-41. However, except for F-40/F-41 no C2 coil spring was used on any C3 and vice versa.

[Stephen B.]

Re: 65 variable front springs

Thanks Joe. What's the best source for springs?

[Joe L.]

Re: 65 variable front springs

Thanks Joe. What's the best source for springs?

Stephen------

That I cannot help with. None of the replacement springs I have seen even appear correct. I think that many are actually "generic" or "one size fits all".

For example, AC Delco specifies the same springs for both C2 and C2 Corvettes. As I mentioned previously, except for F-40/F-41, no C2 Corvette used the same springs as C3 and vice versa.

[Edward D.]

Re: 65 variable front springs

Stephen,
No one reproduces the variable wound spring as original. However, if you have a set of originals Eaton Spring in Michigan (and probably others) can re-temper them to original specs for you. Their replacement spring is also excellent. I have put Moog springs (fewer coils than original) in a few cars and they seem to work well. For a driver you just go with the replacement spring (like the Moog). For restoration, a good or reconditioned original set is the way to go.
Update - I've had original rear 9 leaf springs re-tempered by Eaton in the past, but not front coils so can't say for certain they do those. You would have to call them to ask about this type of service.

[Stephen B.]

Re: 65 variable front springs

Thanks for everyone's answers

[Mark M.]

Re: 65 variable front springs

I've used Long Island front springs with good results. They put an effort to get the cars to sit correct.

[Stephen B.]

Re: 65 variable front springs

Thanks for the input

[Mark M.]

Re: 65 variable front springs

Stephen to answer one of the original questions, I found a set of original 65 standard coils and it is 12 windings with a .6 diameter wire used. It is a variable rate spring.