Front Coilover vs. Standard shock in spring

[Dean Feiock]

Originally Posted by BIGG18c

Thank you for the quick reply. I guess I was under the assumption that the tubular control arms moved more freely and weighed less to help with weight transfer. Yes, disc brakes is a for sure project this winter. With the current motor one of the tracks I frequent I have to really lean on the factory drums. I was thinking aerospace brakes on all four corners? Also what is starting line ratio? Thanks again!

There are low resistance control arm bushings and low friction ball joints.

Tubular control arms are not needed to have a free moving front suspension.

Most aftermarket tubular control arms do weird things to camber and toe.

Camber, castor, and toe change from full compression to full extension of front suspension should be an area of focus and effort.

Starting line ratio = first gear ratio & rear axle ratio

How the converter hits the rear tire is a big factor.

[Hacksaw]

Rework your stock a arms and make provisions for a good quality double adjustable shock. That way it's that much easier to jump into Stock elim. when your ready.

[Lenny5160]

As a guy who put tubular control arms and coilovers on my '70 Nova, I'd recommend putting good bushings in your stock control arms along with a quality spring/shock combo. My car works well but I definitely lost some front end travel in the switch.

[BIGG18c]

Thank you all for your suggestions and information. I will be on the hunt for good aftermarket bushings, springs and shocks. Would polyurethane from energy suspension do the trick? Then just moroso trick springs and a good double adjustable shock?

[L78 Nova]

Santhuff front coils made a big difference in my 72 Nova. I also had 6 cyl coils in previously.

[Henrys Toy]

Originally Posted by Dean Feiock

There are low resistance control arm bushings and low friction ball joints.

Tubular control arms are not needed to have a free moving front suspension.

Most aftermarket tubular control arms do weird things to camber and toe.

Camber, castor, and toe change from full compression to full extension of front suspension should be an area of focus and effort.

Starting line ratio = first gear ratio & rear axle ratio

How the converter hits the rear tire is a big factor.

Good morning ,
I would read and re-read the above statement. This hits most of all the nails on all the heads. I have a 1969 Chevy Nova with all pretty standard stuff, The Moroso Upper control arm bushings or the Energy Suspension stuff is good. I believe the Global West control arm bushings are better.
Make sure all your front end components are in good shape and a Quality Alignment are a must. I have Four Wheel Drum brake car and I can lean on the brakes pretty hard , and anyone that has seen my Stocker will tell you. The above information should get you very close. Stockers don't have coil over shocks but work very well for there intended purpose. A higher Horsepower car might require different front components, a good front end guy will be able to guide you correctly. They should be versed in the vehicle dynamics of a drag car.

Respectfully,
Henry Kunz 1534 H/SA

[Marty Rinehart Jr]

If you need any front suspension ideas for your car, feel free to call us and we will be glad to get you the right parts for your project.
Rineharts Performance Race Cars 717-793-6819