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I have an adjustable spreader bar left over from an old C3 project that I was going to use in my '64 to help firm up the front end some. For those of you guys that are familiar, what is the procedure for adjusting the bar? I assume you do it with the weight of the car on the ground and adjust the length of the bar until it is tight between the upper control arms and tighten the jam nuts.
I agree with part of your process, but I would think it's best to be done at an alignment session. Dennis
Greg,
I'm with Dennis on this one! You may want to talk to Tom Selby (Sky65) as he has one in his car. He's on a road trip now though with a bunch of his buddies - they were @ the NCM earlier today in Bowling Green - so you may not get an answer right away!
Tom
Thanks guys....I dont disagree with you. For the time being, what I'll probably do is install the bar and set it to "hand tight" with the car on the ground. The camber was set at that some static position, and I'm not going to be able to put enough force on that bar by hand to push the upper control arms outboard to the point of changing the camber any. That should at least prevent the front from twisting inboard on either side while under load. I plan to have the alignment verified after 2000 miles just to see what has settled/shifted anyway.
Greg,
Please post a pic or 2 when you finish the install and share your thoughts on whether you feel a difference? The reason I say that is that Sky65 gave me his old spreader bar a few years ago and I have yet to install it - real curious on your results! Thanks!
Tom
I recently installed a spreader bar (Classic Aircraft & Auto Inc.) on my 67. I followed the instructions Jim from CA&A provided:
Your alignment should not be affected by installing the spreader bar.
When I install these I install the unit complete with exception to adjusting the spreader bar.
I jack the front end up from the center of the front cross member to where the tires are 2 inches clear of the ground.
Then my hand only, NO WRENCHES, I adjust the spreader bar out to where it is snug.
This places the front end in a more neutral position.
When you brake or accelerate the spreader bar will rigidly support the front end.
We found big blocks were the worst due to additional weight many years ago.
I adjusted it (wheels raised) so I could slightly rotate the bar such that the heim joints rock slightly between the brackets. Once the car was lowered, the bar was firmly secured – no movement.
I’m pleased w/ the modification and have noticed a real, if modest, increase in stiffness – most noticeable over bumps.
Plenty of spreader bars have been installed without needing to do it with an alignment. Ties the two shock towers together, helps to reduce frame flex. Surprised the non-race car crowd is attempting to give advice on this as after their alignments, their non-reinforced frames flex like hell each time they drive them.
So does the race car crowd recommend installation with the car on the ground or in the air? I assume on the ground, but thats what I'm looking to verify.
Dennis
Correct "spreader bar" setup
as after their alignments, their non-reinforced frames flex like hell each time they drive them.
