[Alfajay]

Terry:

Wow, looks good. I'll be interested to see what replies you get back regarding the bushings in the rear A arm. Perhaps they're the same as those used in the trailing arms. I must admit that I just re-installed my arm using the old bushings. I worry about that ball joint too (the one on the A arm that attaches to the differential) - what to do when that requires service.

Regarding the length of the limit straps - two thoughts:

- Alfa used two methods for securing the limit straps. I believe that early cars overlapped them under the bump stop that bolts to the frame, while later cars used two small steel plates approx 1-1/2" square with four bolts through them which "sandwich" the butted ends of the limit strap. Trevor Fay may be assuming the butt and sandwich method - it does make things easier to take apart. That design calls for shorter straps, since they are not overlapped.

- Check to see what length straps your car really needs. The straps should become tight and limit further downward axle movement just before the spring is fully extended. You definitely don't want them too long - the springs can fall off their perches - and don't want them too short or you will be limiting suspension travel.

Regards