Discs done, cut springs?

[68conv4sp]

What a difference. The SSBC disc kit pulls it down very quickly compared to the stock drums. Hated to part with the cash, but on to the next challenge. I want to lower all corners 1". Blocks will go in back, cut springs in front. 2 Questions:

After installing the blocks, what is the best shade tree method to correct the changed pinion angle?

Will cutting one loop off of the shock stiffen it a little for autocross?

 

[2bav8]

Cutting off one coil will raise the spring rate a little tiny bit. If you're looking for a stiffer spring I would buy aftermarket coils and adjust ride height from there.

You'll drop the front end A LOT if you cut off a full coil. I noticed over a 1" drop from half a coil.

 

[68conv4sp]

Good point. 1" of drop would be fine, but if that does not materially increase the spring rate, aftermarkets are the answer.

Since it is a convertible, and thus less stiff in structure, I would probably go with progressive springs (?) to keep the ride somewhat reasonable. I also use it moderately in autocross.

 

[RapidRoy]

Lowering springs

Yeah, new coil springs are not that expensive. I tried trimming 1/4 coil from my stock springs and I ended up rubbing on my LH tire. I guess the springs were tired after 40 years. I have just installed Maier 600#'s, let me know and I'll give you a review after I get a few miles on them, feel good so far.

 

[68conv4sp]

Roy, is your car a convertible? Just curious to hear how uprated springs will effect my less rigid car (has welded sub frame connectors, export brace, and MC bar). Thanks.

 

[RapidRoy]

No, it is a '67 FB, and that is a good point. I hadn't thought about that, will the stiffer springs feel different and provide different handling characteristics in one chassis, convertible, versus the FB? I do not have SFC's, but I have welded in a RH torque box, '67's only came from the factory with LH torque box, and added an export brace. The shock towers, which I assume are going to absord the load from the coil springs, should be about the same, so, it may not make that much of a difference. When I get some more driving time on the car, I'll ask John, Opentracker, and Jay, who recommened the springs, their opinion on this. Shouldn't take more than a week.
You may have to remind me, the 70's took their toll on me.