Should I replace coil springs????
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 162
Likes: 0
From: Indian Trail NC
Should I replace coil springs????
I am in the process of replacing all the rubber bushing on my 81. While doing this, I’m going to replace the rear spring with a new CF mono spring along with new shocks. Since I have the complete front end torn out, should I replace my coil springs while I’m at it? They are original but I’m not sure if I need to replace them now?
Drifting
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 1,562
Likes: 2
From: Spring Texas
How many miles on your car? How are you planning to use the car? If you are just going to cruise, and your car has less than 50k miles, use the old springs. More than 50k miles, or you autocross, road race or even street race (we don't really talk about street racing here), you need new springs suited to how you plan to use the car. Check forum sponsors VBP or Van Steel to find the springs you need.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 5,269
Likes: 54
From: Orlando Florida
St. Jude Donor '05
If you're happy with the ride height and ride quality and there are no obvious signs of damage (heavy rust, bent coils) I wouldn't replace the springs.
Many like the front a little lower and stiffer, the VBP 550lbs springs are great.
Many like the front a little lower and stiffer, the VBP 550lbs springs are great.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 162
Likes: 0
From: Indian Trail NC
The car has 72K on it now. The ride height looks okay, but I'm not sure of the handling since all the bushings were shot. Not to mention the shocks were still the originals. Right now I have no plans on racing. I want a nice rider for me and the wife on the weekends.
I did talk with VBP and they recommended a 330# for the rear and #460 for the front to give me a nice ride. I was just wondering if I would be gaining anything by replacing them or save the $80 for something else
I did talk with VBP and they recommended a 330# for the rear and #460 for the front to give me a nice ride. I was just wondering if I would be gaining anything by replacing them or save the $80 for something else
Advanced
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 68
Likes: 0
From: Dacula GA
I just replaced all of the rubber bushings on my 71 with poly. I kept the original springs with 108K miles because they seemed to be in good condition. The ride is still great for cruising. I may think differently if I raced it.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 5,269
Likes: 54
From: Orlando Florida
St. Jude Donor '05
You'll be happy with the stock springs.
My '79 was sitting wayy to high with the 460lbs springs, looked like a 4x4.
With the 550s it's fine, nice and stiff, not uncomfortable, low (27" fender to ground at center of wheel).
Again, from what you're describing the stock springs seem to be the best for your Vette.
