Spring Rates

RET_COP · #1 (**permalink**) 07-14-2011, 01:31 PM

mbeer6 remember there is the length of the spring and the rate. Going to a softer rate may cause the rear end to hit the snubbers on a bump. Going to a softer rate may not work well with the rate of the front springs. If you have a 12 inch spring that may be your problem, a 10 inch would correct it and allow you to lower the ride height and get the adjustors higher on the shock. There is alot of science to this shocks included, but I tried to make a simple move and just went up in rate.
My suggestion would be to pull out a spring and look at the length and rate and get back to us. Take a measurement of the rear end housing to the snubbers, how high the adjusting coller is on the shock and the ride height [space between the top of the rear tire to the lip of the fender and length of spring under weight. Wayne and Larry have good knowledge about the B&Bs. At least that is my thinking.

Lou

RET_COP · #2 (**permalink**) 07-14-2011, 01:43 PM

One more thought, I wanted a high ride height in the rear. I like the look of the forward rake. I had too much space between my rear tire and fender all the way around, the 26" tire looked lost. That is why I chose the 28" dia rear tire. I thought this out and took a thousand measurements, and when I ordered the tires I really stressed over it. $825.00 is not easy to come by for me, and all information said to stay with the same diameter tires [front to rear] or close as possible.

Lou

RET_COP · #3 (**permalink**) 07-15-2011, 05:30 PM

Ok I took the snake out for a cruise and I have to say the springs were perfect. I went over a particular dip in the road on the way to Watch Hill, which I usually bottomed out and with a 1/4 inch lower ride height I had no issues. The stiffer ride was a nice change.
That is what I like about these cars. they're made to take apart tinker with, from drag racing to road racing, from cruisn' to showing, to fit anyone's desires, and yet, popular and ageless, we are all connected as COBRA owners.
Lou

mbeers6 · #4 (**permalink**) 07-16-2011, 12:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RET_COP

Ok I took the snake out for a cruise and I have to say the springs were perfect. I went over a particular dip in the road on the way to Watch Hill, which I usually bottomed out and with a 1/4 inch lower ride height I had no issues. The stiffer ride was a nice change.
That is what I like about these cars. they're made to take apart tinker with, from drag racing to road racing, from cruisn' to showing, to fit anyone's desires, and yet, popular and ageless, we are all connected as COBRA owners.
Lou

Glad to hear it worked out Lou!! I'll get back to you guys once I have a chance to measure everything on mine. I'm in AZ now

RET_COP · #5 (**permalink**) 08-28-2011, 08:35 AM

To update the spring situation. I Put QA-1 300 lbs in the rear and QA-1 500lbs in the front. I have thought of AX the car when I get the chance. I really like the way the car handles now. It stays closer to level and doesn't feel like its flopping over. Its not bad for cruising, I don't mind a stiff suspension. My wife hasn't been in it yet. She'll never notice