78 Coil Spring Question ????
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Joined: Mar 2008
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From: Rose City Mich
78 Coil Spring Question ????
I have the front end on my 78 opened up, should i replace the front coils at this time, Do they lose their ride strength over the 30 years? and which one should i put in. 78L82Pace car. 
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Joined: Feb 2005
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2007
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From: RI, Now Franklin/Nashville TN
I have a 78 L82 4 speed and changed the front springs (550's) and all the control arm bushings (to Polyurethane) two years ago at 62,000 miles. The front springs will definitely sag and lose rebound over time more than mileage. Changing the above components made an unbelievable difference in steering response. I also have a 360 rear fiberglass spring and HD Bilsteins in the front and Sport Bilsteins in the rear. My next project is to have GTR99 (on this forum) rebuild the steering box. Your box is surely shot based on the time alone since the grease has long since dried up. Change the rag joint also in the box.
Race Director
Joined: Feb 2005
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You can monitor the free heights of your springs on a regular basis. Be sure to always measure height at the same point on the end coils(mark your springs to indicate the measuring point).
Good coil springs will last a very long time...
Good coil springs will last a very long time...
