Super shock length

[Supercc]

I am in the process of re-installing the front suspension on my '67 Super and have run into a problem. The new KYB shock does not extend enough to pass thru the upper perch. ... just touches. Earlier, I decided to update the brakes to the newer GTV/Spider ATE's (for parts availability) and swapped to the newer uprights/spindles as well. I now see these newer uprights are a bit taller (+5/8") than the old ones... which may be causing the problem. Any one else successfully made this brake swap? What additional parts do I need?

Also, I would like to "slightly" lower the stance. Any suggestions as to pros / cons of cutting 1/2 or full coil off stock spring length? Or is this just a bad idea? Thanks.

Charlie - SuperCC
'62 Giulia Spider
'67 Guilia Super

[Andrew]

All the 105/115 cars call for the same shocks, at least from the aftermarket. So I'm not sure what's wrong except that the shocks aren't long enough.
Andrew

[sprintgtc]

Hi Charlie,
Andrew's right. Also, the taller spindles won't affect the shock length. It just changes the roll center and improves handling.

As to height, are the spacers still in the spring pearch? You can try removing them before cutting the springs.

[Andrew]

I have found some cheapie aftermarket shocks (for VW, Ford) didn't really fit very well. I wouldn't expect that from KYB though.
Andrew

[Supercc]

Thanks guys. I posted this question in the "Suspension,etc" forum as well. Centerline is measuring for me the extended length of the KYB's vs the Koni Red's to see if that is the solution. I'm sorry now I threw away the old front shocks during the initial tear down. I presently measure 17" between the center of the lower stud and the Super's upper perch. Centerline indicates this is only 1/2" more than a newer Spider they measured in their shop. That makes sense as the taller uprights would add approximately that extra length. I think a longer shock is the only way to go... I don't want to use the shock as a travel limiter.

Charlie

[sprintgtc]

Charlie,
The longer spindle doesn't shift the lower A arm down, it moves the upper arm up. The lower arm position is dictated by spring length. I have the newer style (and longer) spindles on my Super and had no problems installing my shocks.

[Supercc]

Mike,
I agree ...when the springs are loaded thru the tires. But when up on jackstands, the suspension rests on the upper control arm (and the top rubber bumper); the longer upright now pushes the lower A-arm abit lower. I could (with external) force compress or raise the spring closer to ride height and install the shock.... if that is what is done. But again, I do not like the idea of using the shock as a limiter. As your's work ...are you using Koni red's or other?

Thanks for you help.

Charlie

[Andrew]

I'd think if you use your shock as a droop limiter you won't have a limiter, or a shock, for long.

Maybe it's missing the stock droop limiter pad that the upper A-arm rest on at droop, and so the A-arm is falling too far, allowing more suspension travel than allowed? That might explain running out of shock length. Is the pad missing? Have you tried a stock shock or Koni to see if it's long enough?

Andrew

[Supercc]

Andrew,

The "rubber bumper" I mentioned ... is your "droop limiter".... which I'm sure is a better term... and yes it is in place and looks correct. Unfortunately, I do not have any other shocks with which to compare. Centerline is measuring, but has not gotten back to me as yet.

Charlie

[sprintgtc]

Hi Charlie,
Yes I'm using red Konis- and you are right about not wanting to use the shock as a suspension stop.

Andrew has a good point regarding the rubber bumper. Yours may be degraded or too flat. That might let the upper arm drop too far.

[Supercc]

I think the mystery is solved! Centerline called back and indicates the KYB fronts are 1" shorter than the Koni Reds at full extension. Rear's measured the same length. I'm returning the KYB's , F & R, and will use the Koni's instead all around.

Charlie