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View Full Version : 69 Camaro front suspension HELP!!


bearcat
07-09-2010, 08:25 PM
Ok I have a problem BBC, hotchkiss springs, QA1 shocks, 2 " spindles.

The height was too low when I first put the engine in. I then put 2" spacers and everything was good to go. THen a few months later, more sagging and the ride height is too low.

any ideas how to fix this? Can I put a 4" spacer? Do I need different springs?

THanks for helping!

Track Junky
07-09-2010, 09:06 PM
whats length and rate of springs? Also, IMO, 2" drop spindles not recommended.

bearcat
07-28-2010, 05:16 PM
Re-attack. I put in the stock BB springs from eaton and I gained only 1/2". That is right after I put the car back on the suspension. Apparently the BB springs compress more than the SB springs. What can I do to get a full 2" gain after settling? Spacers? Get rid of the dropped 2" spindles and go with stock? THanks for the help!!

67bird
07-29-2010, 03:53 AM
First thing is compare the rate of the springs. You will probably find that even though the stock BBC springs are talller, they are lower rate that the Hotchkis. Still compare them. You may need a stiffer taller spring. I would compare rates and then decide. Was conditions do you have that dictate the ride height being low? Is your exhaust dragging or is the whole car bottoming out or what. I think we are going to need more information. I would assume that your springs were drop springs, then you added drop spindles? I would assume you have headers on your car? These things all add up. Let us know.

bearcat
07-29-2010, 04:58 AM
The only problem I have is wheel clearance. I hace 18X8 up front. Everything else is good, headers, exhaust, etc. I do have 2" dropped fat man spindles on. Not sure how to go about buying springs that will push it up 2 " if the stock ones didn't work and I've ripped this thing apart 4 times now, but oh well. Thanks for any input.

importkiller69ss
07-29-2010, 07:31 AM
im with everyone else never been a fan of drop spindles . there proven not to be good for handling and tend to casue problems. the drop springs and or coil overs should b the way to go

lhkustoms
07-31-2010, 09:25 PM
I would get rid of the drop spindles first as they cause major clearance issues on F bodies. Then either use drop springs or coilovers to lower your car to get the ride height you are after. Alot of folks use circle track springs and adjusters like from afco. If you are after a Tall spindle check out our Pro Billet™ tall non drop spindles as your situation is exactly why we developed them.

GregWeld
08-01-2010, 07:14 AM
What Luke said X's 2

BTW -- Raising it 2" is "huge" -- are you sure you need to raise it that much?

When you THINK about your statements -- that if you want to raise the car 2" and you're running 2" dropped spindles... it's pretty darn obvious what part needs to be changed. :rofl:

Hotchkis
08-04-2010, 03:09 PM
Ok I have a problem BBC, hotchkiss springs, QA1 shocks, 2 " spindles.

The height was too low when I first put the engine in. I then put 2" spacers and everything was good to go. THen a few months later, more sagging and the ride height is too low.

any ideas how to fix this? Can I put a 4" spacer? Do I need different springs?

THanks for helping!

Hi,

From what I gather here, you've installed Hotchkis 2” lowering springs, as well as a 2” drop spindle for a total of 4” of drop? This is not a combination we normally recommend. We do offer a 3" drop kit (http://www.hotchkis.net/6769_camaro_firebird_sport_leaf_springs_3_drop.htm l) which is a better way to get lower than the 2" inch drop.

There should have been no sagging of our springs after the initial installation. If you had a change in ride height, it is possible that the springs were most likely not seated correctly originally, or the control arm bushings were bound up, and needed to wear in. This is common with a new bushing installation, especially if they are rubber.

You are always welcome to call our tech support line to discuss the specifics of your project and parts. It's no fun to have a car that can't be driven comfortably.