Recommended sequence to reassemble C2 front suspension

[Mark P.]

I have a 1965 bare frame that I am planning to start putting back together after a 6 year break.

Is this the right sequence ?

1. Install lower control arms
2. Install upper control arms
3. Install springs
4. Install spindles, hubs and brake rotors as complete units
5. Install shocks
6. Install steering gear, pitman arm, idler arm and relay rod and damper as a complete unit
7. Install sway bar

I have the Shop Manual but I am not clear about the best order. This sequence will help me restore the fasteners along the way.

Thanks

[Edward J.]

Re: Recommended sequence to reassemble C2 front suspension

Mark you have the order correct , but leave the rotors or drums off the spindles, just that much extra weight to handle.

[Mark P.]

Re: Recommended sequence to reassemble C2 front suspension

Thanks Edward.

[Christopher R.]

Re: Recommended sequence to reassemble C2 front suspension

Are there shims in there? Different color ones indicating different sizes?

[Mark P.]

Re: Recommended sequence to reassemble C2 front suspension

For the front control arms, I was planning to use 3 thick shims in the rear and 2 thick shims in the front and then will check it after the body is back on. Does this make sense ?

[Edward J.]

Re: Recommended sequence to reassemble C2 front suspension

Mark, what you are thinking is a good idea, for ball park caster / camber settings, and use a tape measure to set toe adjustments, just pick the same thread on each tire front and back and add about 1/16th to 1/8 to rear of tire. this will get you in the ball park to get to shop for alignment, the same can be done for rear toe, and use a square to adjust the camber on rear car should be sitting flat on concreate, and you should roll chassis back and forth to let it settle down first.

[Jim S.]

Re: Recommended sequence to reassemble C2 front suspension

Just a reminder to install these before the upper A arms

[Tracy C.]

Re: Recommended sequence to reassemble C2 front suspension

Mark, Installing a coil spring before the spindles may make the spindle install very difficult. I installed the spindles first and then dropped the lower control arm to install the coil spring. Use some 1/2 all thread to draw the lower control arms back into position. This can be facilitated by a floor jack under the lower control arm but you will need to wrap a chain around the frame and under the jack to keep the frame from lifting as you operate the jack.

[Mark P.]

Re: Recommended sequence to reassemble C2 front suspension

Thank you very much Edward and Jim.

[Mark P.]

Re: Recommended sequence to reassemble C2 front suspension

Thanks Tracy.