Re: [Amc-list] 58-63 American Handling

[Frank Swygert <farna@xxxxxxx>]

I didn't lower mine either, except through the use of the lower profile tires for thje same reason -- didn't want to mess with the geometry of the front end, though I don't think up to 1" of lowering would hurt (maybe lower 1/2"?). The 15% stiffer progressive springs didn't change the ride much at low speeds (only slightly harder, not as much as the 10% straight-rate HD springs would have been), but did stiffen it up at higher speeds -- which is the whole idea with progressive coils. The further the suspension rebounds the stiffer the spring gets. 

Those half-leafs usually have a big rivet that can be placed to raise the rear by changing the amount of arc/leverage the spring applies. I just keep it flat, which doesn't raise it at all (or very little, maybe 1/4"), just stiffens it up a bit. Mine didn't ride hard, but handling improved 100%! I often wished I had a panhard bar, but think it was mainly worn out spring bushings, something I never got around to replacing before selling it. 

-----------
Date: Sat, 13 Dec 2008 10:49:53 -0800
From: Tom Jennings <tomj@xxxxxxx>

Frank Swygert wrote:

> > Tom, you're close! I had a "corner carver" 63 American. The total
> > suspension setup was HD front progressive rate springs (12% stiffer
> > than stock, IIRC), front swaybar from a Spirit (the ends had to be
> > straightened in a hydraulic press -- no heat -- and mounts made for
> > the arms), half-leaf bolt on helper springs, 7" cast aluminum wheels
> > w/ 195/65R15 Bridgestones. 
>   

> > The sway bar didn't help much at all, the stiffer front springs were
> > immediately noticeable! 
>   

I forgot you did this -- that all makes sense... personally I like the 
soft suspension and jeep-like ground clearance overall though it doesn't 
help handling it has its advantages once you learn it.

Progressive springs in front would be a good idea. I won't drop it 
though, when lower A-arms don't rest parallel to the ground it's 
generally a poor compromise (susp. travel, bump steer, etc).

I can see how the helpers would help out back. The car is perfectly 
level with junk in the trunk (and the springs look original, I cannot 
believe they're not sagged, usually i replace all springs in cars).

Up front, I did that hack to the lower arms (replaced the skinny shock 
spacers with 1.5" OD massive barrel) and made a new shock mount.

-- 
Frank Swygert
Publisher, "American Motors Cars" 
Magazine (AMC)
For all AMC enthusiasts
http://farna.home.att.net/AMC.html
(free download available!)

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