Which adjustable Strut Rods for a C2?

[Roger P.]

I am replacing the strut rods on my '65 convertible as part of the rear suspension restoration that I am working on at this time. One looks original, but is bent (probably for alignment reasons) -- the other is a thicker rod (probably from a C3). New rods aren't too expensive, and the adjustable strut rods provide for better aligment without bending the rods (so I am told). There are a handful of different adjustable strut rods offered by the usual vendors, but does anyone have a recommendation of one over the others? My T/A's are being rebuilt by Van Steel and they offer a set, but I would like to get the best ones available since they are all around the same price. Any thoughts?

Thank you,
Roger (50141)

[Joe L.]

Re: Which adjustable Strut Rods for a C2?

I am replacing the strut rods on my '65 convertible as part of the rear suspension restoration that I am working on at this time. One looks original, but is bent (probably for alignment reasons) -- the other is a thicker rod (probably from a C3). New rods aren't too expensive, and the adjustable strut rods provide for better aligment without bending the rods (so I am told). There are a handful of different adjustable strut rods offered by the usual vendors, but does anyone have a recommendation of one over the others? My T/A's are being rebuilt by Van Steel and they offer a set, but I would like to get the best ones available since they are all around the same price. Any thoughts?

Thank you,
Roger (50141)

You don't need adjustable strut rods. There is no need to bend original strut rods to achieve proper rear camber, either. This was a procedure once often practiced as an alternative to replacing the strut rod bushings which was the real cause of the camber adjustment problem.

What you need are one of the following:

1) a pair of good, used original 63-74 strut rods fitted with new bushings. These rods have 1-1/4" ID orifices for the bushings;

2) A pair of new reproduction 63-74 strut rods. Of the ones I've seen, these are not perfect in terms of adherence to every facet of original detail. However, they're close enough that no one will likely notice. Choose the forged style, as original, and not those with welded-on ends;

3) A pair of 75-79 Strut rods. These use 1-3/8" bushings and are SERVICE for 63-74 applications. Most of the Corvette parts vendors have available these rods from the aftermarket. They are virtually identical to original 75-79 GM strut rods. Federal-Mogul/Moog is one of he manufacturers.

All 63-79 Corvette strut rods used the same rod OD; there was no difference between C2 and C3 rods in this regard.

With strut rods with new bushings, you will have no problem achieving a proper camber setting. Someday, if you do have problems after long service, all you need do is to replace the bushings.

[Joe R.]

Re: Which adjustable Strut Rods for a C2?

Just an added note about the availability of the 63-74 Strut Rods. They can be obtained from Volunteer Vette 1 865 521-9100. They have the 63-74 without Bushings, with Polyurethane Bushings, and with Rubber Bushings as originals. Prices are $30.00, $47.00 and $45.00. These look and function exactly like the originals. They also have the 75-79 and 80-82.

JR

[Roger P.]

Re: Which adjustable Strut Rods for a C2?

Joe and Joe,
Thank you for your replies and very good information. Finally something that will save me a few dollars (those T/A rebuilds are a killer)! What is the correct finish color for the strut rods? I assume that black is correct, but I see the vendors offer rods that appear both black and what appears unfinished. Is the larger diameter bushing on the '75-'79 better than the smaller ones on the '63-'74 rods?

Thanks again,
Roger (50141)

[Duke W.]

Re: Which adjustable Strut Rods for a C2?

The most common cause of bent strut rods is using an old fashioned frame lift to lift the car by the strut rods. Bent strut rod is a 100 percent probability outcome.

Duke

[John H.]

Re: Which adjustable Strut Rods for a C2?

What is the correct finish color for the strut rods?

Roger -

The strut rods were natural as-forged finish.

[Joe L.]

Re: Which adjustable Strut Rods for a C2?

Is the larger diameter bushing on the '75-'79 better than the smaller ones on the '63-'74 rods?

Thanks again,
Roger (50141)

Roger-----


In my opinion, YES. The bushings in these seem to be a lot more durable, although I can't understand why. They're, of course, not the thing for 63-74 "correctness", but, functionally, I consider them better.

Also, think of it this way: you don't think that GM increased the bushing size for 1975-82 because the smaller size used for 63-74 worked just as well, do you?

[Michael F.]

Re: Which adjustable Strut Rods for a C2?

Roger -

The strut rods were natural as-forged finish.

In our Gulf coast climate. That means rust color.

[Harry S.]

Re: Which adjustable Strut Rods for a C2?

If this is in the thread I missed it, but....

I've seen bone head mechanics bend the strut to align the rear wheels because they we not familiar with the camber adjustment bolts. It was beyond belief!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Paul Y.]

Re: Which adjustable Strut Rods for a C2?

Roger-----


In my opinion, YES. The bushings in these seem to be a lot more durable, although I can't understand why. They're, of course, not the thing for 63-74 "correctness", but, functionally, I consider them better.

Also, think of it this way: you don't think that GM increased the bushing size for 1975-82 because the smaller size used for 63-74 worked just as well, do you?

I replaced the original strut rods with the later on my 63 many years ago and found a nice improvement in the ride. Paul