Any tips for front and rear end rebuilds?
10-08-2004, 03:15 PM
#1
Instructor
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Member Since: May 2004
Location: Baton Rouge LA
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Any tips for front and rear end rebuilds?
I probably won't start this project until early spring (no heat in the garage. Winter temps hit 30 and 40 below). I just got the car and it appears a lot of the parts on the front and rear ends are original. I'd like to check things out and catch any problems in the garage instead of on the road. I've seen some discussion regarding replacing bearings, bushings, etc. Any good solid tips on how to check for problems? I would feel better about just dropping the wheels and replace everything, then I know it's all good. I have the GM service manual, so I should be all set. I know there are things they can't tell you in text books, so I that's why I wanted to ask for advice here. You guys have been tinkering for years, this is my first.
10-08-2004, 03:33 PM
#2
Racer
Member Since: Aug 2004
Location: Chambersburg PA
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Put her up on a lift/stands and check everything out...Then call VBP they are having their fall sale so everyone can get their winter project parts. They also have an assembly and disassembly video that a lot of guys swear by...probably a good $20 item. With this sale you should be able to rebuild the entire vehicle's suspension for about $1000. That would be Brand new everything...and in poly.
I have done my rear and its like night and day...and my car only had 75k and was not in that bad a shape.
I have done my rear and its like night and day...and my car only had 75k and was not in that bad a shape.
10-08-2004, 04:38 PM
#4
Le Mans Master
So many tips and tricks to remember and post at once.
Like 75rag4sp said ... get under there and inspect/wiggle stuff.
You will see the old loose components. If you're digging into it, you
have to replace all the rubber bushings. You can choose rubber
for originality and softer ride, or poly components for longevity
and less deflection - better performance.
The biggest issues that will get in your way:
rear trailing arm pivot bolts frozen : saw them in the frmae pocket
frozen rear shock mount : oil, heat, and/or grinding off strut rod end
broken tabs on rear diff cover (holds spring) : replace
worn rear differential yokes : replace (pain)
cracking front crossmember at front suspension : weld/reinforce
removing front control arm bushings : torch the rubber out - air chisel the outer shell
Those are the big problems that folks find along the way.
I may have missed a couple others.
Good luck - you can do it - the forum can help.
Like 75rag4sp said ... get under there and inspect/wiggle stuff.
You will see the old loose components. If you're digging into it, you
have to replace all the rubber bushings. You can choose rubber
for originality and softer ride, or poly components for longevity
and less deflection - better performance.
The biggest issues that will get in your way:
rear trailing arm pivot bolts frozen : saw them in the frmae pocket
frozen rear shock mount : oil, heat, and/or grinding off strut rod end
broken tabs on rear diff cover (holds spring) : replace
worn rear differential yokes : replace (pain)
cracking front crossmember at front suspension : weld/reinforce
removing front control arm bushings : torch the rubber out - air chisel the outer shell
Those are the big problems that folks find along the way.
I may have missed a couple others.
Good luck - you can do it - the forum can help.