Front suspension rebuild
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 94
Likes: 0
From: Kernersville NC
Front suspension rebuild
Hello,
I probably already know the answer to question #1 and 2, but I want to here it from the experts. I am working on an 80. I shopped for tie rod ends, ball joints, bushings, ect....
1) Ecklers has a kit that includes idler arm, TR ends, and ball joints. Vette Brakes' kit has these parts plus CA bushings, and TR sleaves. Do we think these parts are the same in quality?
2) I have new KYB shocks already. Should I replace the springs also?
3) Any tips or words of wisdom that might keep me out of trouble?
Thanks,
Eric
I probably already know the answer to question #1 and 2, but I want to here it from the experts. I am working on an 80. I shopped for tie rod ends, ball joints, bushings, ect....
1) Ecklers has a kit that includes idler arm, TR ends, and ball joints. Vette Brakes' kit has these parts plus CA bushings, and TR sleaves. Do we think these parts are the same in quality?
2) I have new KYB shocks already. Should I replace the springs also?
3) Any tips or words of wisdom that might keep me out of trouble?
Thanks,
Eric
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 2,417
Likes: 336
From: Texas
when i did my 79, i got all the front suspension parts at Orielly Auto, (Moog parts), only thing i had to order was front springs, got those from volvette.com (sport touring $59.)
and if orielly doesnt have it they can usually get it next day , free shipping.
i would change the springs while you have it apart. ( be careful when removing them, i used a chain around them when i disconnected the lower ball joint.
and if orielly doesnt have it they can usually get it next day , free shipping.
i would change the springs while you have it apart. ( be careful when removing them, i used a chain around them when i disconnected the lower ball joint.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 805
Likes: 5
From: Naperville Illinois
I'm no expert, but I'm rebuilding the front & rear suspension on my car & have been a frequent visitor to this forum. I think the consensus is that the kits usually contain lower-quality parts, and that you get what you pay for.
Unfortunately, many parts suppliers who formerly made their parts in the US are now producing at least some of their inventory in Asia. Federal-Mogul owns Moog brand, and produces many (most) of their suspension components in China. That said, Moog parts are still better made than the stuff in the kits (and cost more) even though they are both foreign made. Along the same lines, Timken makes great bearings...in Mexico, Poland, India, China...
You should ask the vendor(s) where the parts are made, but don't get too hung up on buying USA-made.
I would replace the springs, they are reasonably priced & you'll have to compress them anyway to do the ball joints. I would get the stock ones; I've read several complaints on this board about the shorter/stiffer ones.
Unfortunately, many parts suppliers who formerly made their parts in the US are now producing at least some of their inventory in Asia. Federal-Mogul owns Moog brand, and produces many (most) of their suspension components in China. That said, Moog parts are still better made than the stuff in the kits (and cost more) even though they are both foreign made. Along the same lines, Timken makes great bearings...in Mexico, Poland, India, China...
You should ask the vendor(s) where the parts are made, but don't get too hung up on buying USA-made.
I would replace the springs, they are reasonably priced & you'll have to compress them anyway to do the ball joints. I would get the stock ones; I've read several complaints on this board about the shorter/stiffer ones.
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 100
Likes: 0
From: Dimondale Mich
I just recently did a total rebuild on the front of my 82. I purchased the kit front Ecklers. Everything fit good, I reused the orig springs. I haven't had it on the road yet, working on the rear right now. I guess it's a personal preference of what you feel comfortable with. There is so many US companies that do bussiness overseas, thats all part of the Global Market. It's hard to find 100% US made parts anymore. Good luck with project. 
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 5,381
Likes: 416
From: N J
I just ordered a complete kit from Willcox, they are a forum member, and offer a forum discount also. The kit I ordered is made in USA and the price was right also. Did a little shopping on line last night, I compared prices from the big guys with theirs for other items I need and reordered from them again. Good luck. 
