'69 rear spring bolts

[Marc R.]

What is the correct length for rear spring bolts? Were there 2--as in one for HD? Ecklers sold them for my car at 8". I've seen another '69 with 6" bolts.

[Joe L.]

Re: '69 rear spring bolts

Mark-----

The 1963- 1972 rear spring end bolts are 6-1/2" long. The same bolt was used for all suspension applications.

[Tom R.]

Re: '69 rear spring bolts

In late model C3s...three bolt lengths were specified for use to adjust trim heights to specs. Workers were given the latitude to change spring bolts to come into the trim heights...and these lengths may carry forward into what's available today. Late model lengths were 5.76", 6.05" and 6.34"

Joe gives you the specs for the early years

[John H.]

Re: '69 rear spring bolts

The 8" bolts and Nylok nuts are sold to compensate for the incorrect reproduction rear springs which increase ride height when installed using the 6" link bolts. Maybe someday someone will make a "correct" 9-leaf standard rear spring

[Gary S.]

Speaking of incorrect springs

why is it that NO ONE reproduces the exact spring? Gary Beupre seems to be heading the project on this but, if I remember correctly, no reproduces springs that have the correct spring rate, the correct cut of the spring, and the correct finish. Why is that? Patents? Liability? Just curious!

Gary

[John H.]

Re: Speaking of incorrect springs

Maybe Franz Estereicher can shed some light on this question when he presents his Tech Session on Corvette rear springs at the 2004 National Convention in Windsor; we got an abbreviated version at our Chapter Meet in August at Meadow Brook, and it promises to be a great presentation

[Tom R.]

Re: Speaking of incorrect springs

Why? Could it be the "one size fits all mentality?"

During C3 alone, seven base suspension springs were specified (including mono) and seven heavy-duty springs.

[Gary B.]

Franz E.

John,

A few years ago Franz hinted that he was considering getting involved in an effort to make a
correct mid-year spring. I told him if he followed through on that idea that I would be the first
in line to buy one. Until something like this happens, we're stuck with used, incorrect repros or a combination.

Gary