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Old Jul 1, 2015 | 10:16 PM
  #1  
The Doc's Avatar
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From: Port Hope Ontario
Default C3 suspension problem

Hey There
I am new to the forum and have run into a bit of a problem with my
1972 suspension. My rubbers in my rear spring hangers were shot so
I ordered a kit with new bolts rubbers and washers. I noticed that the new bolts were considerably shorter than the threaded rod someone
had used to fix it previously. I measured the old distances 4 in LHS
and 5 in RHS. So I went ahead and installed the new kit...now I have 3
in each side but now the tire to fender distance is huge like 6 in instead
of the original 4 inches. The tire castor also seems to be tipped in at the bottom.
I am thinking that the bolts are too short and there is no adjustment
on them. Any ideas on how to fix his problem???

Thanks The Doc
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Old Jul 2, 2015 | 10:24 AM
  #2  
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The suspension has to settle before you conisder further adjustments. Drive it up and down the drive way or around the block, then take another look.
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Old Jul 2, 2015 | 10:32 AM
  #3  
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Hi D,
Welcome!
The rear ride height dimensions can become a problem as original parts are replaced with aftermarket parts.
This is especially true when the rear spring has been replaced.
Other factors can be the rubber bushings, strut rods, shock absorbers, and alignment.
The overall length of the original trailing arm to spring bolts was about 6 3/4" including the head. There was very little adjustment available.
The use of longer bolts is a common fix for the ride height symptoms, but doesn't address the actual causes.
If you post some pics of the suspension someone may be able to help you figure out what's going on back there.
Regards,
Alan

Last edited by Alan 71; Jul 2, 2015 at 10:45 AM.
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Old Jul 2, 2015 | 10:32 AM
  #4  
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The longer bolts that were in there gave more adjustment to lower the car. Go to one of the vendors, they all sell the longer bolts to lower the car.
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Old Jul 3, 2015 | 11:52 PM
  #5  
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Originally Posted by The Doc
Ho I went ahead and installed the new kit...now I have 3
in each side but now the tire to fender distance is huge like 6 in instead
of the original 4 inches. The tire castor also seems to be tipped in at the bottom.
I am thinking that the bolts are too short and there is no adjustment
on them. Any ideas on how to fix his problem???

Thanks The Doc
Too short. It's really so non-notional. The shorter the bolts, the higher the rear end sits in the air! Get the stock length bolts. Three inches is definitely too short.
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