54 Corvette Ride Height re-visited

[Brian W.]

As noted in my past posts I have '58 dated springs 3751438. I've been told I need 3706707-'54 springs (hard to find). Can the '58 springs be re-arched to provide a proper ride height for my '54? These are still groove springs so i'm half way there.

[Gary B.]

[Jim L.]

Re: 54 Corvette Ride Height re-visited

Would you consider removing one leaf from those '58 springs to get an appropriate ride height?

If not, then one other possibility would be to turn the front spring mount upside down. That would lower the rear slightly. And, as I recall, doing so would also reduce rear roll-oversteer..... definitely a Real Good Thing.

[Chris S.]

Re: 54 Corvette Ride Height re-visited

The 54 leaf springs are not hard to find

[Troy P.]

Re: 54 Corvette Ride Height re-visited

I believe the spring dimensions are available for each C1 year. So check and see if your 58 springs are the correct length for 54. Then if you get them re-arched use the 54 specs for that.

I had my 54 springs re-arched and heat tempered. With the now correct specs they seem a bit too high in the rear. Ride height may include driver and full fuel tank. Also after putting some miles on it, it might settle down. (BTW front alignment specs are with a full fuel tank.)

[Brian W.]

Re: 54 Corvette Ride Height re-visited

I tried flipping the front hangers to lower the ride height and it can't be done with the '53-'55 hangers. Maybe the '56-'62 hangers can be turned upside down but when I flipped my '54 hangers it hit the frame at the top and the holes don't line up.

[Richard M.]

Re: 54 Corvette Ride Height re-visited

I think Troy's idea is a good idea. I have access to the specs in my previous thread.

But I have what may be a idea, albeit unconventional....

In the past I've successfully repaired kinks in leaf springs, cold. This was done by disassembling the leaves. Then using a hydraulic press I've removed the forward kinks on the lower 2 leaves. This has lasted many years.

Since the springs are wrong, yet identical parts to the 54 spring leaves, I'd be tempted to try it if they were mine.

Rich

[Brian W.]

Re: 54 Corvette Ride Height re-visited

I thought long and hard regarding this problem. I have a good set of '58 springs 3751438 and don't want to alter them as maybe someone else can use them. I think my best option is to find a set of '54 springs 3706707. Chris stated they are available so if someone knows of a set let me know and perhaps we can make a deal or a trade.