New spring pre-load?
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 626
Likes: 2
From: Nashville
New spring pre-load?
I just got all of the parts for my 1.6RR's. I read an article in Corvette Fever about pre-loading the springs before install so you can get the correct heght and not have to re-shim. Anyone done this? :smash:
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 20,322
Likes: 248
From: Summerland B.C. Canada
Re: New spring pre-load? (96BLKTN)
If I were building a new motor I would do so, But with over 100,000 miles on mine before switching to 1.6 rollers and LT4 springs, I just went with the recommended installed height. For my purpose, a couple of pounds here or there, ain't going to make much of a difference. :jester
:cheers:
:cheers:
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2000
Posts: 9,715
Likes: 27
From: Kempner Texas
Re: New spring pre-load? (96BLKTN)
This is trick that has been around for a long time.
Take each new spring and compress it in a vice several times to coil bind. This allows the spring to take a set. Then install them at the correct seat pressure and that setting will remain much more constant.
Be sure to protect the spring from the jaws of the vice.
New springs lose seat pressure when not pre-stressed which then calls for shimming to bring them back into spec.
Jake
Take each new spring and compress it in a vice several times to coil bind. This allows the spring to take a set. Then install them at the correct seat pressure and that setting will remain much more constant.
Be sure to protect the spring from the jaws of the vice.
New springs lose seat pressure when not pre-stressed which then calls for shimming to bring them back into spec.
Jake
