66 Rear spring
When is it time to re-arch or replace a rear spring. I have 1-13/16" to 1-15/16" gap between the top of the flat trailing arm surface and the rubber bumpers that are attached to the frame. The bumpers are new & the spring is an original type standard nine leaf BB spring. The spring appears to have approximately 1" arch with full vehicle weight on it. What would be the approximate arch on a new spring or what is an acceptable arch on a used spring? What are the +/- of new vs. re-arched spring? I'm concerned about tire clearance. Thanks, Glen.
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Re: 66 Rear spring
The easiest way to tell is go to your service manual and get the ride height specs and then start measuring at the proper points as specified in the service manual. -
Re: 66 Rear spring
Glen -
Measure the "D" height at the rear as shown in your Assembly Manual (UPC 4, sheet B5) - takes about two minutes with a yo-yo. That measurement is independent of tire size and measures suspension deflection, which is what you're after.Comment
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Re: 66 Rear spring
Russ & John, Following you advice & the AIM, it seems that I'm slightly more than 3/4" lower than an "as shipped" new 66 Corvette. But that is with an almost full tank of gas not just 2 gal. as specified in the AIM. I guess that dimension is OK??? Thanks for your help, But, I didn't have a yo-yo!Comment
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Re: 66 Rear spring
I have re-arched '60 & '65 springs (cold - not heat treated) and both bent back. My advice is: if you do not drive it, possibly it might last. If you plan to drive the car, buy new or look into professional repair with heat treating. Don H.Comment
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Re: 66 Rear spring
Thanks, Donald.Comment
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