[Healeys] Front end Rebuild

[Bob Spidell]

Literal "weak link" theory:  when I used poly bushings on the sway bar 
links, I kept
busting links.  Stick with rubber, unless you want to upgrade the links; 
e.g. with Cape's
rose-jointed links.

bs


Bob Spidell wrote:
> Hi Randy,
>
>
> No one's jumped in, so I'll take a stab.  I have some experience with this.
>
> First, you'll be tempted to put nylon/graphite or poly bushings in.   I 
> tried nylon, and they caused an annoying "thunk" when going over bumps.  
> I see there are poly bushings advertised that supposedly don't squeak, 
> but it's a big job to replace these and I think you're better off 
> sticking with the stock rubber/steel bushings, at least for the inner 
> A-arm bushings.  I honestly couldn't tell the difference in handling 
> with the nylon, though they definitely make the suspension stiffer. 
>
> Observe the "weak link" theory: if you stiffen or strengthen one part, 
> it puts a greater strain on other parts.  I can't say for sure if it was 
> cause and effect, but when I had the nylon bushings in I got cracking of 
> the shock mounting plates.   However, I do run nylon offset top trunnion 
> bushings; they helped me take out some excessive positive camber.
>
> I don't think slotted or drilled rotors are necessary unless you're 
> going to race.  Invest in some really good brake pads--I've had good 
> luck with Ferodo--and I see Moss has some "exotic" pads (e.g. kevlar), 
> but I can't advise you on selection of those.
>
> If you want to get extravagant, replace the flex lines with stainless 
> steel braided teflon lines.  Presumably, they don't expand (as much) 
> with pressure, and you should get a little firmer pedal (though I don't 
> have personal experience with these).
>
> When you're done, invest in a good alignment by somebody who knows what 
> they're doing.  By taking out the excessive positive camber and getting 
> a good alignment my car's handling improved significantly.
>
>
> bs
>
>
>
>   
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Bob Spidell         San Jose, CA        bspidell at comcast.net
'67 Austin-Healey 3000             '56 Austin-Healey 100M
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