C3 front coil springs

[Jeff M.]

I have the stock big block no ac front springs in my 71 ls6 and it sits about 1 inch to high for me. What springs did the aluminum head cars use if they did not come with f41? I was thinking of just buying the small block no ac springs? Other options are buying the f41 springs or cutting a half of a coil off the current spring, I realize this will add stiffness, but so will the f41

[Joe L.]

Re: C3 front coil springs

I have the stock big block no ac front springs in my 71 ls6 and it sits about 1 inch to high for me. What springs did the aluminum head cars use if they did not come with f41? I was thinking of just buying the small block no ac springs? Other options are buying the f41 springs or cutting a half of a coil off the current spring, I realize this will add stiffness, but so will the f41

Jeff-----


There was no difference in the original standard suspension springs for 1971 for LS-5 or LS-6. Both were GM #3931825.

[Jim T.]

Re: C3 front coil springs

If you can find the F41 springs, 518's, you will not have to cut them to lower your car. I installed them on my 70 years ago.

[Edward J.]

Re: C3 front coil springs

I have the stock big block no ac front springs in my 71 ls6 and it sits about 1 inch to high for me. What springs did the aluminum head cars use if they did not come with f41? I was thinking of just buying the small block no ac springs? Other options are buying the f41 springs or cutting a half of a coil off the current spring, I realize this will add stiffness, but so will the f41

Jeff, Be sure to check out the rear suspension, I have found some times the rear spring cushions flaten out over the years causing the rear suspension to lower and also the rear alignement - camber being out will also add to it. also check out the rear strut rod bushings.if these bushings are worn this will cause a camber issue.

Its not always the front springs, Its the rear suspenion thats lower.

[Stephen L.]

Re: C3 front coil springs

Check your suspension heights as indicated in your AIM. The dimensions are NOT from the wheel opening but are a comparison between the ball joint height and the lower "A" arm shaft centerline. There is a similiar measurement for the rear suspension.

This will give you direction on what to do next... if anything.

[Duke W.]

Re: C3 front coil springs

Jeff, Be sure to check out the rear suspension, I have found some times the rear spring cushions flaten out over the years causing the rear suspension to lower and also the rear alignement - camber being out will also add to it. also check out the rear strut rod bushings.if these bushings are worn this will cause a camber issue.

Its not always the front springs, Its the rear suspenion thats lower.

Compressed/hardened rear spring link cushions are BY FAR the most common cause of lost rear ride height. New cushions will also have an amazing effect on ride by significantly reducing harshness.

I wish I had a nickel for every guy who replaced the rear spring when nothing more than new cushions were necessary.

They should be replaced every five years whether the car is driven or not.

Duke