Spitfire Rear Tires Leaning Out

[Mike1234]

I have a 76 Spit. The back tires lean out. Drivers side is worse. Is this a simple problem to fix?

 

[RonMacPherson]

Mike, I am confused as to your description of "lean out".
Could you specify a little more for me?

Do the top of the tires lean out, or in? Do the bottom of the tires lean out or in? Are the tires pointed straight ahead?

If the top of the tires are tilting in, you have negative camber.

If the top of the tires are tilting out you have positive camber.

So, if you could describe the symptom a bit more, so I can get a picture in my head of the car's situation, please?

 

[DrEntropy]

It'll likely be the classic Spit "wear induced" negative camber... ugh.

"knock-knee'd"

 

[RonMacPherson]

Probably true, but want a little more "definition".

 

[eejay56]

Negative camber is common on Spits. The rear spring sags, often more on the driver side because there is always someone sitting there. Replacement is not hard. You'll need a vise, and a helper. If you don't have it I recommend the Bentley manual (you need to learn UK English though)

 

[LarryK]

Rear spring sag is common with age and mileage. Springs can be reset. The camber is set by shims at the diff and u-joint. Spits, GT6s have this rear squat and the more weight you put in it the more evident it is. Heavier shocks help some but will not stop it. To keep tyres from wearing prematurely rotate more often.