Coil springs
Race Director
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 19,294
Likes: 2,754
From: Charlotte NC
I rarely re-install the old springs when I do suspension work or upgrades. I usually install VB&P's coil springs. Higher spring rate and have never had a complaint. It all depends on if you are trying to keep it original or not.
DUB
DUB
Drifting
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 1,886
Likes: 9
The front spring rate on a standard suspension C3 varies from maybe 260 lb/in to about 300 lb/in. Most of the aftermarket springs are MUCH stiffer- 460, 475 or 550 lb/in. This higher rate spring will change the ride and handling balance. It will also require a stiffer shock absorber to control it.
If that's what you want.
If the ride height on the OEM springs still looks good, just clean them up and reinstall them. The factory specifies that the ride height be measured at the lower control arm. The difference in height between the C/L of the front pivot bolt and the bottom surface of the spindle support must be measured, and compared to the specs.
If that's what you want.
If the ride height on the OEM springs still looks good, just clean them up and reinstall them. The factory specifies that the ride height be measured at the lower control arm. The difference in height between the C/L of the front pivot bolt and the bottom surface of the spindle support must be measured, and compared to the specs.
Last edited by gcusmano74; Apr 20, 2013 at 08:50 PM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 7,454
Likes: 977
From: RI, Now Franklin/Nashville TN
Couple of points, the factory springs are very soft: <300 according to the gm specs. Any steel spring will sag and loose elasticity over time and with miles. I replaced my factory gymkhana/ F41 springs with 550's with no noticeable harshness with the same Bilstein HD shocks. I have made numerous upgrades over the years to the front suspension including poly control arm bushings, spreader bar, 255/45/17 ZR tires etc the car steers, rides, and handles better by far than the stock springs and suspension. Change the springs!!
Pro
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 523
Likes: 4
From: Calgary Alberta
Couple of points, the factory springs are very soft: <300 according to the gm specs. Any steel spring will sag and loose elasticity over time and with miles. I replaced my factory gymkhana/ F41 springs with 550's with no noticeable harshness with the same Bilstein HD shocks. I have made numerous upgrades over the years to the front suspension including poly control arm bushings, spreader bar, 255/45/17 ZR tires etc the car steers, rides, and handles better by far than the stock springs and suspension. Change the springs!!
I'm about to install the VBP 550 springs in my 77 and am trying to see if I should cut out any coils prior to installing. My engine is not a factory L82 anymore so I don't know what the final ride height will be. I think the best option is to install without cutting and then adjust the height but cutting the coils afterwards if lowering is desired. Just would rather not have to remove the coils to cut them after the installation.
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Verdad Gallardo
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 31,278
Likes: 4,372
From: Westminster Maryland
Hi b,
There are often posts about people having ride height problems with new springs.... not as many as rear ride height problems.... but still on occasion.
If the ride height of the original springs is good, and you're satisfied with their performance... maybe re-use them.
Regards,
Alan
There are often posts about people having ride height problems with new springs.... not as many as rear ride height problems.... but still on occasion.
If the ride height of the original springs is good, and you're satisfied with their performance... maybe re-use them.
Regards,
Alan
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 2,748
Likes: 90
From: Sacramento California
C2 of Year Finalist (performance mods) 2019
2018 C2 of Year Finalist
Good plan. I think you will find they are just right without cutting a coil.
