73 Nova Suspension Questions

[chevyorange]

I'm beginning to piece together my Nova project. The plan is to modernize the suspension, brakes, and motor. I'm getting the motor together over at LS1Tech.com, but I'm wondering what my options are for the brakes and suspension. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

[Dave Severson]

Lots of good aftermarket disc brake conversions available for the Nova's. Only limited by how much you want to spend.....

[Henry Rifle]

Buy Popular Hot Rodding, Hi Performance Chevy, etc. - or buy a cup of coffee and thumb through it at Borders. There are dozens of suppliers for updated brakes and suspensions for Novas.

[chevyorange]

Alright, I'll do that. What kind of handling can I expect? I mean to say how good can these upgraded suspension handle in comparison to modern day cars?

[Dave Severson]

Well, if you go with all poly bushings, big disc brakes, a correctly sized sway bar, a bit of lowering, first rate shocks, and probably a set of frame ties to stiffen up the unibody it should be quite respectable. Not to say it will run with the Porsche's and Vettes, but it will certainly hold it's own with the daily drivers that are on the street these days. There are lots of good books on handling and suspension improvements. Best way to began your project might be educating yourself on what it takes to make a car handle. Things like roll center, bump steer, instant center, and weight transfer are just some of the items to consider when going for a good handling car....

[chevyorange]

I've been doing a lot of reading on handling, and I have an older friend (Degree in Physics) who is quite the car buff. We're trying to lay out plans for my Nova. I appreciate all the information, but sometimes it's just hard to find a foothold when climbing some of these mountains.

Thanks

@Dave Severson
HaHaHa. I expect it wouldn't run with the Porsches and Vettes, but it hurts everytime the import tuners think an older car can't be made run with their Honda, Toyota, etc.

[327,JET]

A QA1 coil over set up is awesome in the Nova . The height is adjustable with 12 setting's but the quality is worth the money .QA1 stocker shocks in the rear with a sway bar will really make that Nova tuck in in the corners . Hyper flex bushings will tighten everything up . Also relocating the battery to the trunk will also help . These Nova's are real light in the rear , especially with a big block.