[C2] Big block coil springs to raise front end
12-09-2018, 10:31 PM
#1
Big block coil springs to raise front end
I have a 65 with a327/350 hp engine and I want to raise the car about 1 to 2 inches as I live on a dirt road. Can I use the standard 396 springs in the front to do this? I know I can use spacers on the rear spring bolts to raise the rear. Thanks
12-10-2018, 03:09 AM
#2
I installled the original springs, bought from GM in 2006 (still had some in stock!) and it raised my front about an inch. So the 31 year old spring where sagging a bit. I think the BB springs would be too much. You really want the rear half shafts somewhat horizontal, so jacking the rear with short bolts 2 inches to match BB front springs may not be that optimum.
12-10-2018, 08:48 AM
#3
Le Mans Master
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Don't know for sure, but am betting the BB springs will put you in a situation that cause a rough ride and may cause alignment problems. Maybe the longer spring with the same spring rate would raise it and still maintain the ride, but not sure about the alignment challenges.
12-10-2018, 09:59 AM
#4
Melting Slicks
I think the coil springs for a 396 for 65 are the same part number as the small block springs? (3851100 ?) The springs for the 427 in 66 would have a higher load rate though.
Last edited by Critter1; 12-10-2018 at 10:00 AM.
12-10-2018, 11:29 AM
#7
Melting Slicks
For the new 427 in 66, engineering decided to design a new coil with a higher rate.
Last edited by Critter1; 12-10-2018 at 11:36 AM.
12-10-2018, 02:02 PM
#8
Drifting
Get 2 coil spring spacers that fit under the bottom of the spring in the control arm. A 1/2 inch spacer will raise the car almost 1 inch, and will not affect the ride quality. GM used to make plastic spacers, but they have been discontinued a long time. I'm sure that some speed equipment company makes them. For the rear, get a pair of bolts with more thread on them than the originals. That way, you can adjust the rear to any height you want. VB&P used to sell those bolts.
RON
RON
12-12-2018, 10:58 AM
#9
I have a set of springs out of my 65 that I think are big block springs. My father bought a 65 back in the late 70s which we still have. The previous owner replaced the factory 327 with a 396 and I think he added bigger springs. Because when that motor died my father put in a factory small block and I always felt the front end sat about 2 inches to high. I recently replaced them with reproduction small block springs and now the car sits normal. I would sell and ship these springs to you if you are interested. Send me your email and I can send you pics of how the car sat with those springs.
robmagnano@hotmail.com
thanks
Rob
robmagnano@hotmail.com
thanks
Rob
12-17-2018, 08:22 PM
#10
Thanks to All Who Responded
I have the original chassis and another rolling small block chassis for parts. I will compare the springs to see if they sagged and use the taller ones with spacers. I am 73 and this is my 4th Vette but my first roadster. I am enjoying being able to take my time on the restoration and appreciate the information you are providing.