Spring Bolt Length C-3

[Harmon C.]

I bought a 73 and the rear at the wheelwell heigth was more between the tire and the wheel than I noramally see or want. Before any work was done the LH wheelwell was 29" and the RH was 30 1/4" to the top of the wheelwell. The bolts were removed and the LH was 5 3/4" long and the RH was 5" long. The short bolt was the high side a buba fix maybe. I installed new cushions and some 6 1/4" bolts which I think are stock on a 73. My end result was 29 1/4" on the left or + 1/4". On the RH it was 30" - 1/4". I improved from 1 1/4" difference side to side to 3/4". If just the bolt is changed and the cushions stay the same will that side get lower with a longer bolt?
Lyle

[John H.]

Re: Spring Bolt Length C-3

Yup, longer link bolt brings the body down lower over the tire; frequent "fix" for replacement springs that are uneven or create tail-high ride height.

[Joe L.]

Re: Spring Bolt Length C-3

Lyle-----

The side-to-side dimensional difference that you describe may not be in the suspension, at all. If you are measuring from a BODY point to the floor, the difference may be in the body/frame mounting. To see if there is a mechanical problem or deficiency, you need to check other suspension component interrelationships. Dimensional specs are given in the AIM or Chassis Service Manual.

Generally, you will find that the problem is NOT in the suspension. In your case, the problem may have been exacerbated by the spring bolts. I DO NOT recommend the use of different length spring bolts to correct side-to-side dimensional differences, especially since these differences are not usually caused by suspension problems, at all.

Using different length spring bolts to correct side-to-side dimensional differences is a "band-aid" solution. It "corrects" a problem which is mostly "cosmetic" by compromising the suspension.

[Mark #28455]

Didn't 1973 use rubber body mount cushions?

First, measure the height from the frame to the ground on both sides, if different, then you have a frame or suspension problem, if the same, then the problem is likely in the body or its mounting. I thought they started using the rubber instead of the aluminum about that time - check to see if you have a missing or sagging mounting point.
Mark

[Joe L.]

Re: Didn't 1973 use rubber body mount cushions?

Mark-----

Yes, 1973 marked the beginning of the return to rubber body mounts. 1968-72 used the aluminum mounts.

[Jim T.]

Re: Didn't 1973 use rubber body mount cushions?

Your are correct Mark, 1973 was the first year for rubber mounts for the C3's.

[Harmon C.]

Re: Spring Bolt Length C-3

Joe
I knew when I found the one bolt 1 1/4"s shorter it was a bubba fix. I was suprised when I installed the new cushions and longer bolt that the new measurement was only 1/4" shorter. The rear bumpers look and are level now and that was what I was looking to do with both bolts the original length. I hope it goes down when I drive it as it is a little higher than I like. I did bounce it some on the lift.

Lyle