Thread: coil overs instead of leaf spring on front of model A

Tweet

Hey Guys, looking for ideas and pics of coilovers used on the front axle of Model A's.
I have a 31 model A with a suicide front end that I want to put back under the frame. But Im thinking of using coilovers instead of the leaf spring.Looking for ideas on how to mount them to frame and to axle. Any of you guys done this?And have pics? Pete and Jakes is the only place I've found that has a kit but cant see by the pics how they are mounted to the axle.

Mine is a '34, but the same mechanics apply. It's a full P&J chassis with the frame narrowed in front The first two pictures are during construction. The last two pictures are the final assembly. I had to change the shocks because first set were the wrong length.

You have to be really careful in choosing the shock length and spring weight. Although they are adjustable, there is a very narrow "sweet spot" where the weight is supported, the ride height is correct and the appropriate bounce and rebound are maintained.

Mine was particularly difficult because there is only one top and one bottom mount on each side. Simply moving the adjustable bottom spring retainer won't solve everything on a bad choice of length and spring weight. Adjusting spring length just affects too many variables.

My advice is to get the front of your car on scales to determine the weight supported by the front springs. Then you can work with spring rates, and shock lengths and shock bounce/rebound to get the appropriate distance between upper and lower mounts.

Also remember the appropriate locations to attach the Panhard bar. The attachment point on the frame and on the axle need to be the same height from the ground.

IMG_0007.jpg

IMG_0005.jpg

Axle2.jpg

IMG_4199.jpg

Here's another set up for you 2 consider

Those are some awsome cars guys!! thanks for the pics and advice. first question that comes from the pics is, why the tube axles, just preference or peticular reason. and second using the tube axle with hairpins instead of a 4bar setup. all I read about is how you shouldnt use a ridgid tube axle with hairpins, a flexable I beam axle is prefered.

Great cars and pics guys, Thanks. I replied days ago with an attachment but Im new so it doesn't post right away.

Stripped off the old suicide front end, now starting the 4 bar install.

Heidts makes a nice front end... Home - Heidts

http://i645.photobucket.com/albums/u...psb479b3c9.jpg

Front end done!
2015-07-28 19.50.04.jpg