Got a quick question are the repop trailing arms correct for 1966 and will they pass judging? I have one NOS from the 80's and will need to purchase a repop and wanted to know if there are any differences from the original 66's. Thanks Brian
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Re: C2 Trailing arm 1966
Brian-----
Later GM SERVICE trailing arms and, I believe, the current "reproduction" trailing arms have 4 small holes drilled around the perimeter of the rear of the spindle hole. These holes were used for attaching of the u-joint shield used for 1982 models. If present, though, these holes can easily be filled and "obliterated".
Other possible differences to check for:
1) The parking brake cable bracket may be welded to the arm at a slightly different location than original;
2) If the arm has an installed rear spring cushion retainer, its configuration will differ slightly from originally installed retainers;
3) There may be pre-drilled holes on the trailing arm for sway bar installation. I'm not sure if 1966 small blocks had these holes, or not. Check your originals for this feature;
4) The paint used for every GM SERVICE and "reproduction" trailing arm that I've seen is glossier than originals. The originals were not the same gloss level as other painted or coated chassis components, but they were not as glossy as seen on these later parts. This is easily "corrected".
There may be other differences but the above is all that I am aware of.In Appreciation of John Hinckley -
Re: C2 Trailing arm 1966
The triling arms are different. There are thousands of good used orig arms around. Rebuilding one is a problem. The GM front bushing is available @10 each. Last time i looked there were 10 left after I bought 20. The sleeve, and washer are not available and if you see them at swap meets be forwarned they are not remanufactured correctly. The sleeve is short and the washers have the wrong angle on them for a perfect crimp.
There is light at the end of the tunnel. A company called MicroControls, Xenia Ohio has manufactured the sleeve, and washers. They fit perfectly. The installation was a breeze with their new tool - It requires a press but the end result is a perfect bushing installation.
Volunteer Vette products can get you the correct parts - but you must ask for them as manufactured by MicroControls or else you may get a parts kit that will not work. Not cheep but they work. I just finished 4 arms for friends and the bushing install took about 4 minutes and the crimps were perfect. The sleeve is flush with the reinforcement plate (washer). Parts are Zink plated to prevent rust.
On a set of orig arms from a 66 S Calif. car the arms had a medium gloss paint job that was sort of half there. The under neeth of the car was rust free and had old dust on it.Comment
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Re: C2 Trailing arm 1966
used paragon bushing kit with a vise and some "not easily found" common sense, the bushings and swedge sleeves went in without a hitch---there is too much stress over restoring these relics---they are really very simple---do not over think the job---good luck,philComment
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Re: C2 Trailing arm 1966
Larry------
You mention that the arms are different. Besides the things I mentioned, what are the other differences? I'd like to know.In Appreciation of John HinckleyComment
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