5 replies to this topic

[johnR]

The rear dry suspension on my 89 city sits at different heights on each side.
I wondered if the doughnut on the higher side wasn't seated properly on the subframe but it looks ok so I presume the other doughnut has collapsed a little (about 1 1/2" difference)
I would rather the rear of the car sat at the lower level so if I fit a hilo on the higher side will I be able to lower it this far and will the mismatched systems be a problem until I get round to doing both?
JohnR

[cal844]

Change both, including a radius arm refurb if necessary

[Spider]

Mmmmm,,,, sorry JohnR, there is a problem there and it could be serious. I would strongly suggest investigating it thoroughly. Even if it is that one Cone has compressed more than the other, to that degree, you should replace them both. Something could let go with no warning and it could give a sudden change in how the car behaves which in turn could lead to a loss of control.

[sledgehammer]

as above -

 

also check knuckle joints & where they join the trumpet - they are all getting old , & corrosion can make the trumpet split on this joint , giving a lower ride height 

 

also subframe condition , some look good - till you poke around

 

I personally wouldn't let it on the road till you find the cause of the drop

[johnR]

The subframe is new and all the knuckles were replaced when I re-built the car during the summer - unfortunately I didn't notice whether it was like it before I started stripping it (7 years before)the car had only done @ 45k miles so I'm quite surprised if the rear doughnuts are worn already?
Visually the parts all seemed fine but you're right I'd probably best strip the lot out again.
What is the adjustment range of HiLo's?

Edited by johnR, 04 January 2016 - 09:33 AM.

[CityEPete]

The donuts lose their firmness even if the car doesn't move, my car is on 27k now but I need to change the fronts as it is sitting a little low on the front and lopsided to the drivers side.

I think they recommend a 5 year lifespan for the cones so if the car was stripped over 7 years ago they were already ready for new ones when you refitted them.

Edited by CityEPete, 04 January 2016 - 09:41 AM.