Front suspension

[GaryBeu]

So now that we have the new fuel tank in it's time to think about the next needed major project...front suspension.

We get a pretty good front vibration at about 55mph. The tires have proper inflation and have been balanced. The suspension is far from new so we suspect it but have NO IDEA what we are looking for. Bentley doesn't give us any clue so does anyone have suggestions as to what to inspect and how to determine what we may need?? It's probably one of those things that really can't be explained, isn't it? : ) Thanks.

 

[Stewart]

Front suspension is fairly simple and strait forward. I would start by putting the front end up on jack stands then pushing and pulling on the front wheels to see if you have any noticeable movement. With the wheels off take a look at the condition of the bushings. If they are cracked, oozing out or not really visible it's time for new bushings. I would use either the v8 or the poly bushings do not use the stock bushings as they will not last.

Once the brake calipers are off remove the link for the sway bar then work on loosening the fulcrum bolt. Put a chain or other strap through the spring and secure it so it can go flying out it shouldn't but better safe than sorry. Place a floor jack under the front suspension and raise it up till the spring has some compression. Remove the upper fulcrum bolt and lower the jack. The stock spring will come out with a bit of wiggling if you have lowering springs they may just fall out.

If it's due for a rebuild you may need

new kingpins easier to buy rebuilt ones vs having them rebuilt unless you have access to the reaming tool that is needed.

You will want to replace the fulcrum pins and the lower hardware as there is a good chance it will be rusted in place

A arms inspect for wear on the outer hole as these tend to oval out. New replacement arms are dirt cheap

inspect the shock for condition and replace if it's shot.

New springs if yours are badly worn or you wish to raise or lower the car. \

New sway bar end links of they are worn.

Depending on how stuck and rusted everything is plan half a day per side.

All you should need is basic hand tools a good hammer and possibly a angle grinder or sawzall depending how stuck everything is.

 

[GaryBeu]

Thanks Stewart...sounds like a lot of work but I ~think~ we can do it. Just hope we can define what needs to be replaced : )

 

[Scott_Hower]

Thanks Stewart...sounds like a lot of work but I ~think~ we can do it. Just hope we can define what needs to be replaced : )

If in doubt, replace it all while you have it apart. The kingpins are the only pricey bits.