C2 Coil springs

[Steve D.]

Is there an apparatus used by professionals to test springs against specs such as pounds per inch of spring collapse, rate of collapse, etc. I am not particularly worried about ride height, because I from what I have read in the archives, that can be a problem with old or new springs. But I would like to get an objective measure of the condition of the springs. (63 convertible)

Steve

[Steve miller]

Re: C2 Coil springs

Most racing teams have a spring rate tester. You could try a speed shop or a shop that builds race cars. I think the one we purchased through BSR Products out of Charlotte, NC cost about $250.

[Steve D.]

Re: C2 Coil springs

Steve

Thanks for the suggestion.

After your reply, I did a web search on "spring rate tester" and found a short discussion about the tester. In that article, progressive rate springs were mentioned. I assume that the standard C2 springs are flat rate. Is there any reason to consider progressive rate springs as a replacement option ?

Steve

[Craig S.]

Re: C2 Coil springs

Steve - I believe most C2 front coil springs are progressive rate, besides the F41 units...allows softer ride/more travel without bottoming as the spring compresses into the secondary rate...Craig

[John M.]

Re: C2 Coil springs

Speaking of springs, does that rubber bumper on the lower control arm ever hit anything? I'm reassembling the front suspension in my project and noted that the only way that that it could hit would be if the spring went completely compressed or flew out of there. What's the chance of that?

[John H.]

Re: C2 Coil springs

John -

The jounce bumpers are there to protect the control arms and ball joints from damage during abusive maneuvers, "getting air", etc. and similar situations that compress the springs beyond the "normal" range of deflection. They don't contact the frame very often, but without them, one of those situations can result in metal-to-metal contact, and catastrophic damage to the suspension.

[John M.]

Re: C2 Coil springs

Thanks John,
It's hard to imagine the spring being compressed that much but I guess people did and do drive these cars a bit hard sometimes.

[Joe L.]

Re: C2 Coil springs

John-----

Yes, and these days, folks pay BIG $$$$$ for cars that may have been "used and abused" for a major portion of their life. Such "use and abuse" may have many consequences for a car, some that are seen and some that are unseen. Makes you think, doesn't it?