C3 Coil Springs

[Kent Greimel]

Hello again,
You were all so helpful with my last question I figured I'd try again with our latest issue...

Our C3 427/390 convertible with factory air came with front coil springs that had 9-10 coils yet everyone seems to sell "original" springs for our car that only have 7 coils. We would like to get new springs with the correct number of coils, any ideas about where I might find them? I've tried the usual places and they all claim to be correct but show a picture of a spring with only 7 coils...

Thanks again for your help!

Kent Greimel
Havre de Grace, MD

[Jim Trekell (22375)]

Re: C3 Coil Springs

The experience with my 70 in changing front springs did not change the front ride height. My 350/300 with air, pb, and ps was setting lower in the front than when I bought it new. I bought the "518" performance suspension spring from GM. My original front coils had taken a set and the spacing between the coils at the top of the spring had diminished. Examining the "518" spring beside the original spring the "518" was a shorter spring with thicker coils. The "518's" were easy to install, just set them in and raise the lower control arm. My 70 sat about the same height on the "518's" and I liked the new feel and control the "518's" give. These springs are not available from GM as I understand it, although it was about the last spring available from GM for the C3's. Vette Products sells a similiar spring, I have a set and sitting side by side of my "518" springs they are about the same size in height. I have not measured the exact diameter of the coils. My 70 has always sat lower in the front than my 68 and my 68 still has it's original springs.

[Steve Wallach]

Re: C3 Coil Springs

Check the Restorer magazine or contact Corvette Central. They have them made to the Blue Print Specs.

Good luck,

Steve

[Joe Lucia (12484)]

Re: C3 Coil Springs

Kent-----

If you want exactly correct springs, look for NOS GM #3931826. They show up from time-to-time in swap meets and on-line auctions like eBay.

You can also use GM #331319. They will vary a little bit from the originals in specs, but will perform exactly like the originals. These are a "sleeper" when they show up on auctions because most folks don't know what they are OR they don't think that they're "original enough" to pay Big $$$$ for.

[Kent Greimel]

Re: C3 Coil Springs

As usual you guys are a great help, thanks!

Kent