Proper Spring Upgrade
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 197
Likes: 22
From: Upstate SC
Proper Spring Upgrade
I'm rebuilding the front end on my 70 L46 convertible. I'm going with poly. I called Muskegon Brake to order new springs. I had decided on the 460# springs as advised in Richard Newton's book. The guy at Muskegon said their spring supplier recommends the 550# springs for small blocks w/AC because of the extra weight of the AC system. Now I'm confused but still leaning toward the 460s. The AC system cannot add more than 30-40 lbs so I don't think that a 90# heavier shock is warranted. I want to upgrade over the 280# stock springs but I don't want an overly harsh ride. I realize the poly bushings will add more harshness to the ride but I don't want to go overboard. The car is a cruise night and weekend ride with occasional short trips planned and some limited day to day usage. I have owned this car for 31 years so this is not an attempt on my part to upgrade something just for the sake of novelty but an honest attempt at bringing it somewhat closer to today's handling standards. I'd just like a little input so I can make a better informed decision on the springs.
Thanks,
Claude
Thanks,
Claude
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 2,340
Likes: 2
From: Moro IL
Re: Proper Spring Upgrade (70L46Conv4Sp)
The AC system cannot add more than 30-40 lbs so I don't think that a 90# heavier shock is warranted. Claude
:cheers:
Pat Kunz
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 12,975
Likes: 22
Re: Proper Spring Upgrade (70L46Conv4Sp)
I have the VB Street/Salom coils in my car. It lowered it by almost two inches and the ride is not harsh. However, I did not use poly suspension parts. I used the hard rubber a-arm bushings from Guldstrand Engineering. If you want to keep the ride height stock, get the 460#. I also used them in my 72, but I prefer the lowered look I get from the 550's.
