The one who posted about using cut down GT6 springs was me.
I measured 2 coils by simply dropping a straight line down from the end
of the spring wire, not from where it started to taper. No, I did not
grind down or otherwise flatten the end of the coil, there's no need. I
did position the cut end at on the top, since the upper perch is more
stable then the lower perch mounted on the shock. No wild fancy
measuring or cutting was performed. Just basic shop tools and a visual
straight line.
The ride is actually smoother with the cut down GT6 springs then with
the stock 1500 springs. Go figure. My only theory is that my shocks
are so worn, going over bumps with the stock 1500 springs would result
in the wheel rising too high, giving a jarring ride. The jarring is
less with the cut down GT6 springs. Body roll is substantially reduced
as well.
Both the cut down GT6 springs and the earlier 1300 springs will lower
the nose, thereby increasing the negative camber a bit. As such, both
would improve handling.
You could also successfully cut down the stock 1500 springs as well, and
that would be free. I would suggest going a coil at a time until you
get the effect you want.
Cooling:
My 1500 is an '80 with the electric fan and real little radiator.
Overheating is not a problem in that car even in 100+ weather. The car
never goes above the halfway mark. If the weather is at all cool, the
gauge never goes above the 1/4 mark. Electric fans are wonderful at
moving air when idling in traffic. Ducts and shrouds are vital for
moving air when running down the road. And none of it will do a blessed
thing if the radiator isn't transferring the heat to the air.
Oil pressure:
Shimming the spring will raise oil pressure. It's an old trick.
Effective, but limited. Your oil pressure numbers are fine and need no
changes.
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