installing c5 corvette complete suspension cradles and all
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 245
Likes: 34
From: Detroit Michigan
installing c5 corvette complete suspension cradles and all
I am thinking about trying to make the c5 suspension work on my 78.
I have tossed around the idea of pushing out the existing control arms and making new extended trailing arms but think it would actually be cheaper, less time, and better handling if I could make the entire cradle assemblys bolt up. I would then be able to use the c5 rack and pinion. I would have to use a different rear diff, perhaps a viper or make the c3 diff work. Who knows if there is enough room for it maybe just make the rear trans work from the c5 too.
I have been searching and searching, found one thread discussing it, and I know a couple aftermarket companys do similar setups. I'm wondering if anyone has actually done this themselves, or know of some pictures with it done?
I have tossed around the idea of pushing out the existing control arms and making new extended trailing arms but think it would actually be cheaper, less time, and better handling if I could make the entire cradle assemblys bolt up. I would then be able to use the c5 rack and pinion. I would have to use a different rear diff, perhaps a viper or make the c3 diff work. Who knows if there is enough room for it maybe just make the rear trans work from the c5 too.
I have been searching and searching, found one thread discussing it, and I know a couple aftermarket companys do similar setups. I'm wondering if anyone has actually done this themselves, or know of some pictures with it done?
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 245
Likes: 34
From: Detroit Michigan
street shops frames, they have 2 different types. one uses the rear tranny and one uses a viper diff. Does anyone know if using the rear tranny fits under the body and tunnel? I can imagine if it requires the tunnel to be widened the room for seats is shot. You can also see they narrow the cradle. I am not trying to have it narrowed. They also dont use the front cradle. I'm thinking I will adapt the cradles as best as possible without a full frame build.
Race Director
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 18,648
Likes: 2,557
Wouldnt the best source to answer your questions be the manufacturer of the frames?
http://www.streetshopinc.com/
http://www.streetshopinc.com/
Tech Contributor
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 20,827
Likes: 959
From: I tend to be leery of any guy who doesn't own a chainsaw or a handgun.
street shops frames, they have 2 different types. one uses the rear tranny and one uses a viper diff. Does anyone know if using the rear tranny fits under the body and tunnel? I can imagine if it requires the tunnel to be widened the room for seats is shot. You can also see they narrow the cradle. I am not trying to have it narrowed. They also dont use the front cradle. I'm thinking I will adapt the cradles as best as possible without a full frame build.
Race Director
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 11,150
Likes: 890
From: South Western Ontario
The base C5 is about 3.5" wider outside to outside of the wheels and any of the larger wheel options (Z06 or wider aftermarket) increases this dimension. It'll be tough to make it fit.
I don't think the rear frame in your pictures looks very rigid either. No point installing a suspension which could perform better if you bolt it to a flimsy frame.
I don't think the rear frame in your pictures looks very rigid either. No point installing a suspension which could perform better if you bolt it to a flimsy frame.
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Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 245
Likes: 34
From: Detroit Michigan
There are easier ways to get killer handling out of a C3
The base C5 is about 3.5" wider outside to outside of the wheels and any of the larger wheel options (Z06 or wider aftermarket) increases this dimension. It'll be tough to make it fit.
I don't think the rear frame in your pictures looks very rigid either. No point installing a suspension which could perform better if you bolt it to a flimsy frame.
I don't think the rear frame in your pictures looks very rigid either. No point installing a suspension which could perform better if you bolt it to a flimsy frame.
anyone else with good suspension ideas and pictures? maybe some non rear steer rack and pinion setups also?
Tech Contributor
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 20,827
Likes: 959
From: I tend to be leery of any guy who doesn't own a chainsaw or a handgun.
lets hear some suggestions, or pictures, or all of the above.
The width is also something that makes me want to gravitate to the c5 suspension, I would'nt mind a wider foot print. the body is my last concern, I can make fenders, or flares for that. It would make wheel options much easier and allow me to use factory wheels for spares, or track setups. I am also trying to push the wheels out wider to get more meat in the back and also more steering angle up front.
anyone else with good suspension ideas and pictures? maybe some non rear steer rack and pinion setups also?
The width is also something that makes me want to gravitate to the c5 suspension, I would'nt mind a wider foot print. the body is my last concern, I can make fenders, or flares for that. It would make wheel options much easier and allow me to use factory wheels for spares, or track setups. I am also trying to push the wheels out wider to get more meat in the back and also more steering angle up front.
anyone else with good suspension ideas and pictures? maybe some non rear steer rack and pinion setups also?
The options are only limited by your fabricating expertise or your wallet.