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81 rear spring

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Old Feb 8, 2014 | 07:53 PM
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Default 81 rear spring

I know the standard spring for 81 was fiberglass, mine is steel. My corvette central catalog says the exceptions are 4 speed and FE 7. Does anyone know what FE 7 stands for?
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Old Feb 8, 2014 | 11:11 PM
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RPO FE7 - Gymkhana suspension
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Old Feb 9, 2014 | 09:22 AM
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Thanks. If I replace it, should I use the same or go to composite? Spring creak is driving me crazy
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Old Feb 9, 2014 | 10:47 AM
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the composite spring is lighter ,no noise and a better ride.thats what every vette has now.
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Old Feb 9, 2014 | 10:56 AM
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If your car has the standard suspension, consider replacing it with the Hyperco EZ Ride composite spring. The rate is almost the same as the stock steel spring (200lb/in).
If your car had the FE7 package, go with one of the higher rate composite springs (300,315 lb/in.) sold by VB&P or one of the repro houses.
If you want to use an even stiffer rear spring, you will change the understeer/oversteer characteristics of the car. That may be what you want. Or not.
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Old Feb 9, 2014 | 11:00 AM
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Originally Posted by pokey1
...I know the standard spring for 81 was fiberglass...
Standard for AT cars.

...mine is steel...
Correct for 4 speed cars or cars with the optional FE7.

Replacement type is up to you.

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Old Feb 9, 2014 | 12:57 PM
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Thanks guys, I think I will go composite to get a better ride and eliminate the noise.
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Old Feb 9, 2014 | 09:57 PM
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I have a 81 and I had the steel spring. I like the feel of the steel spring but like you hated the noise from it. I used a VBP 300 which I then changed to a 330. The 300 was too springee for me.
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Old Feb 9, 2014 | 10:52 PM
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The best thing I did was go to a composite spring and KYBG2 shocks.
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Old Feb 10, 2014 | 02:31 PM
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I just ordered the KYB shocks. I think I will replace the bolts and bushings and live with the spring a little longer. I like the stiff ride and handling of the steel spring. Thanks to everyone for their input.
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