I replaced all my bushings with stock rubber bushings, and was perfectly
satisfied, but I assume you'll get crisper handling with the poly versions
(plus they're easier to install on the trailing arms, and they last longer).
I'm sure others will chime in with their experiences regarding poly.
I replaced my springs with the uprated springs from TRF -- same ride height
-- and was very pleased. On most older TRs with original springs, the rear
ends are sagging badly, which not only reduces suspension travel, it screws
up the suspension alignment. So I think you'll notice a big difference with
new springs.
However, if you want Passat-like handling, you're going to have a VERY stiff
ride (poly bushings, uprated springs, uprated shocks, sold steering rack
mount, uprated tires, uprated sway bar, etc.). Suspension design has
progressed a lot in the 40-odd years since the TR chassis was designed.
Also, the Passat probably has lower-profile (60-series?), stickier tires
than you'll be putting on your TR6.
But that's not why I have my TR6 -- when I want handling, I go drive my 1987
RX7.
Graham
-----Original Message-----
From: The Romagni's [mailto:mrdr@buckeyeweb.com]
Sent: Thursday, August 08, 2002 7:37 PM
To: 6pack@autox.team.net
Subject: TR6 Handling
Hi Fellow listers,
I followed the thread a couple of weeks ago where Graham Vink was
discussing the handling problems he was having. That described my car
perfectly. I saw some of the posts, but wanted to follow on in order to get
some suggestions for getting some crisper handling. I'm not expecting new
car handling, although I just got out of my wife's Passatt and thought,
yeah something like this in the TR6 would be great - taut and firm, but
still a good boulevard cruiser.
So far I've replaced the front and rear shocks (and links), added a front
sway bar and new rubber bushings (yup it was missing when I got the car),
installed new ball joints and tie rod ends along with new rubber upper A
arm bushings.
After reading your replies to Graham, I figure I have to get new coil
springs, maybe new trunnions and finish replacing the bushings front AND
rear.
I've seen the various options for bushings - rubber, urethane, prothane and
poly. What are the pros and cons of each? Also, what are some options for
new springs? I know Moss and TRF have both regular and comp grade stuff.
What other sources are out there for springs? Is rubber the only option for
the spring collars/spacers at the top and bottom of the springs or are
there some different options here? What kind of mixing and matching can go
on? Rubber bushings with up rated springs, vice-versa?
Thanks in advance and sorry for the volley of questions.
Marty Romagni
1974 TR6
Painesville, Ohio
mrdr@buckeyeweb.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------
mail2web - Check your email from the web at
http://mail2web.com/ .
|