Suspension- Latest solution

[Brunel100]

Some of the articles on suspension improvements started back in 2014 and I’ve trawled through most if not all of the posts to see what the best solution might be. There seems to be a consensus on softening the front springs, which I’m informed are rated at 275 lbs, down to something in the region of 225 lbs which at first sight seems a large reduction. I would be most grateful for any feedback from those who have already changed their spring ratings or those that found it unnecessary after altering the existing damper and springs.
BTW I’ve seen a few suggestions of springs being available from Demo Tweaks but I couldn’t find anything of the size I wanted but managed to find a whole range on Rally Designs website. They are near Whitstable and keep a large stock of 21/4 x 9 inch springs.

[NATONEIL]

Ray
I know lots of people have commented on this, but I am not aware of anyone who has actually gone ahead and tried different strength springs, unless you could get them on sale and return it would be expensive.
I am happy with the spring rates but I was concerned that I had too little ground clearance and to compensate for this I followed the advice in the Suffolk manual and screwed the preload collar up. But this did make the spring harder. My solution was to fit dampers 1 inch longer all round (120 to 130 at the front and 150 to 160 at the rear). I kept the original springs and screwed up the preload collars until they made contact and tightened them 2 turns. After changing all the dampers I road tested the car with the damper screws set at their softest settings. I live in Lincolnshire so there are many roads with undulating surfaces. I kept the setting on the front fairly soft so that the wheels deal with the high frequency uneven surface. The back dampers are set quite a bit harder to stop the car wallowing too much. We like the ride now, it is comfortable and we do not ground. Should we ever meet then I would be happy to take you for a spin over the Lincolnshire potholes to let you feel the ride.

[Brunel100]

Neil

Not for the first time I am indebted to you for your very detailed reply.

I seem to be going through a period with my car of scuttle shake which I don’t remember having before I took the engine out and replaced it. It’s almost as though the suspension hardened up whilst the engine was out for a couple of months.

A shame you live so far from me; I’d love to take you up on your offer

I’m off to France, which has lovely smooth roads, on Thursday so on my return I will fiddle about again and if no better I may try softer springs.

I will keep you posted Neil and once again thank you for you invaluable contributions to this forum.

Surely there must be others out there!