faststage1
spring and ride height?
Do any of you have knowledge of the correct ride height for a 70 Stage 1?
I think my springs are getting tired, the car doesn'tseem to stand as tall as it use to and I'm certain I'm not getting taller.
Anyone want to recommend a place to buy new coils?
Thanks,
Chris
a.k.a. "The Wizard"
Chris,Originally Posted by faststage1
This is why it is so important to get a copy of the 70 Buick Chassis manual. It has all this great information. Hope these two attachments help.
Larry
1970 GS Stage1
TSP 470, 602HP/589TQ
11.67@ 115.49 MPH so far
1998 SC3800 Riviera
BPG #1063
Larrymta@verizon.net
http://s172.photobucket.com/albums/w...psfda10b01.mp4
http://s172.photobucket.com/albums/w...ps32ac4f89.mp4
Registered User
Hey Larry,
I was just looking for springs in my catalog when I saw your thread. If you get the stock springs the rear will sit about 1/2" lower than the front, I suggest you try '82 Buick Regal station wagon springs. The coil diameter is the same but the wagon springs have a free height of 15.40 vs. 12.60 which should yeild you about 1" to 2" higher than the front. The part number for the stock GS 455 is Moog 5385 and the wagon is Moog 5391. If you like I can send you a spring catalog with all specs. I know you luv all that technical stuff. Steve
Registered User
Hey Steve,
This is a great idea. So, I pursued this solution only to find out they are on back order without an ETA from the manufacturer. So I went to Moog's website and searched for a comparable spring. They have quite a few available with an ID of 5.570 but I was wondering if the install height has anything to do with the ride height? A few available in an install height of 10 vs. 9 in. Also, the free height is available all the way up to 19.20 in. Is load capacity also a factor? I have the same issues with tire clearance. I need to be about 1.5 inches higher than stock height.
Registered User
I found a set of Moog 5391 for a 1982 Regal Wagon. I installed them on my '70 GS 350 and I must say, "Steve...you're a genius!!" I was able to get a set of 295/50/15 under the rear. The only alteration I felt I had to do was bend the outer lip of the wheel well up so the tires wouldn't rub. This was done only in case the tires ever come up that high. There is a good 3 inches of travel before they even get there. Plenty of room on the inner wheel well. I was able to stick my whole hand in there. Taking into account an empty gas tank, no spare in the trunk, and no interior in the backseat area yet. I figured they would eventually ride a half inch below that lip. Especially with a car load of grand kids for a weekend excursion. The greatest reason to applaud this great idea is the fact that a taller stiffer spring has more stored energy to aid in planting the tires to the pavement. Of course there are other factors involved like adjustable upper trailing arms, no hop traction bars and a 1 1/2 to 2 degree pinion angle. The extra force of the taller stiffer spring pushing to the ground makes for a much improved hook up. Thanks Steve!
Registered User
Oh yes! I forgot to post what the measurement changes were. Before the install the rear rocker panel was 1/2" lower than the front. After, 2 1/2" higher. This was an overall change of a whooping 3 inches.
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