Suspension Differences. 79/80
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Racer
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 257
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From: Tampa by way of MIAMI! FL
Suspension Differences. 79/80
Question. The differences between the 79 and older suspension and the 80-82 suspension, is it more than the differential?
I know there were some measures taken to lighten the 80+ vehicles and am wondering if it is more than the weak aluminum rear.
I know there were some measures taken to lighten the 80+ vehicles and am wondering if it is more than the weak aluminum rear.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 5,236
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From: Myrtle Beach SC
The crossmember and struts are aluminum as well. Each model year 80, 81 and 82 saw the introduction of more aluminum components until in 82 the monoleaf (fiberglass) was used as well.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 5,236
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From: Myrtle Beach SC
What makes you think the steel rear suspension system is stronger than the alloy? Today, that is all that is used. Are you racing?
Now having said all that the heavy duty FE7 suspension was used when FE7 was ordered during those years when base suspension (rear) was being upgraded to alloy. Once you have all the parts, should bolt right up.
Now having said all that the heavy duty FE7 suspension was used when FE7 was ordered during those years when base suspension (rear) was being upgraded to alloy. Once you have all the parts, should bolt right up.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 257
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From: Tampa by way of MIAMI! FL
I'm concerned with the differential not the suspension. I know the 7.5" Aluminum Differential is not as strong as the 8.5" Iron Differential. So my real concern is making sure I got a differential that can handle my plan for motor and trans.
Drifting
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 1,712
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From: Tampa FL
I'm curious as to the answers on this too - now that I'm pushing 580 HP in my 80 with new motor & tranny, I wonder if the stock rear will handle it the way I drive it. Fortunately for the rear end, I don't have very sticky tires yet - but that will change soon, and I think once I've got a tire that holds the road that aluminum rear might become the weak link. I'm kind of a "don't fix what isn't broken, but when it breaks fix it right" kind of guy, so I'm curious to know what I should replace it with if and when it does break on me.
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Drifting
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 1,711
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From: Rochester NY
1980 Vette = 3495lbs
1981 Vette = 3345lbs
1982 Vette = 3495lbs
Last edited by Vampyre; Dec 30, 2008 at 11:11 PM.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 257
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From: Tampa by way of MIAMI! FL