suspension components

[lewis]

New guy, been reading this forum for sometime and I'm thinking of a scratch build.

Anyway, been reviewing the issues of suspension and how the scratch builders are addressing it.

It seems many are looking at donor options?
The late model stock car and hot rod aftermarket has loads of complete and components items to meet any suspension build up. I'm I missing something here or do you guys use these resources.

Any help and input would be appreciated

[trularin]

Where in MI?

[lewis]

I'm in Paw Paw just west of Kazoo

[Three Peaks]

If it were a simple bolt-in proposition everyone would be doing it and what would we need kit manufacturers for?
Suspension geometry is fairly critical and the hot rod manufacturers usually only make pieces for a certain chassis or type of vehicle. Asking them to supply you with Cobra suspension pieces will end in a question like- "sure, just supply me with the drawings and I'll get them put together for XX amount of dollars" (envision large numbers here) Either that, or a just a dumb look like you just got off a spaceship from outer space.

If you can get hold of the drawings and the other pieces needed to make the suspension, you are ahead of the game. However, finding all the proper uprights, ball joints, steering arms, hubs, mounting brackets and pick up points, bushings, bolts, shock absorbers (preferabley coil-over), etc...... can be a daunting task.

If you are looking to do a scratch build, you've come to the right place. There is a ton of knowledge and experience here and these guys are more than willing to help out.
Read through some of the threads and learn what you can, then take a look at the different options and parts and pieces, set a budget and get started. It's easy, just ask anyone! - Bob

[mickmate]

Hi Lewis, welcome aboard. Keep dreaming, keep researching and get someone like Heidts Hot Rod catalog. It has a good explanation of how suspension components need to work together as a system.

[Alex Evonosky]

Lewis,
It is only dreaming if you think it is:

There are a few steps to address when deciding to Scratch Build.
Working space, amount of time and dedication.

Are you going to build a car to race, show, or drive every day.
First being your abilities, such as fabrication, as in steel working welding lathe work to mention a few.

Either totally design your own geomentry or get the numbers from others and insert your own ideas to meet your needs.

If you are really starting from scratch (building frame rails, and attachment brackets) pickup points, then you must first make a jig, so further down the road when setting up and checking degrees for anti dive, angles of upper and lower control arms, the degrees will be what you really want.
My frame is still on the jig after a year and a half.

Anyway, it is like building most anything else: if you think you can or can't , you are still right.


Good luck

[Three Peaks]

lewis,

If you're on the fence on building a scratch built frame, you might be better off buying a frame already constructed. At least that way, you just add the suspension pieces and make any modifications you see fit.
I happen to know a frame is going to be available on ebay probably starting today for a very good price. It is identical to the Cobra Restorers'/ original frame and I believe the price is going to be in the $2,950.00 range.
I talked to the guy selling it and he will be able to supply most of the pieces needed to finish it.

He is also doing something I found very interesting. He is making up a suspension to install the Explorer IRS 8.8 in the car to bring the price in line. I looked at the Explorer IRS lately on a buddie's vehicle, and the uprights and suspension are very close in style and design to the original Cobras.

If you need more information, let me know. I'll be out of town for about a week on vacation, but I can get back to you next week when I get back.

Good luck, Bob

[oldboy001]

Bob:
I have a photo of the frame for sale and a "bunch" of the explorer rear ends in my gallery. It is my understanding that the frame comes with door, hood, and trunk frames.

Scott

[oldboy001]

Bob:
I also understand that the frame manufacturer (Tim Gunning) is making up a complete suspension package that has exactly the same geometry as the original 427 cobra.... but uses lower cost Ford components. Tim is trying to get the business going again... with some first rate inovative parts. If you any concerns regarding delivery of parts, I would be glad to assist in any transactions.... purchase, ship, pictures, etc. I could probably set up some sort of escrow account if needed (or use pay pal).

Scott

[lewis]

space and skill are no issue. I enjoy the research and build, but you would like to get a driver sooner than later. as for use...... a good looking daily driver and the occasional road course action. This car will be driven often and hard.


I lean towards the purist/original but have no problems with updating designs, especially regarding performance and safety. I want to build on an orginal frame and of course the most accurate "priced" body available.

I was thinking on the lines of the 427 but MLOY'S 289 spring project has spark my interest.

......I will look at pre build/kits also. The above mentioned frame is a very attractive option.

Thanks for the info guys

PS was looking thru the post regarding bodies options and opinions....very interesting stuff, especially the FFR issues.........personnally its not original but I think the "perky butt" is a good look.

[Alex Evonosky]

My defination of SCRATCH BUILDING is as follows:

Purchase necessary steel
Cut purchased steel
cut and or burn hand or fingers at least once
Weld steel
Fabricate brackets
read books,
Design suspension
Scratch head (alot)
Re design suspension
Talk to other scratch builders
Scratch head (again)
Re fabricate brackets
And so on and so on.. LOL

If I was going to purchase a frame and a box of suspension parts I would probably put a few more bucks with it and get a kit with all the correct engineering and parts for the whole car and be on the road enjoying the ride...

I heard somewhere that KMP was thinking about selling their car in stage kits. Now THAT would be the way to go. Build at your own pace as to what you can afford to purchase at that time and still end up with a really nice quality quality product.

Just my .02 worth

[lewis]

Alex,
Any build as you know becomes a trade off. In the long run it will probable be a push in dollars, but I'll have a more accurate piece when done. I know I can build the frame and suspension up cheaper than buying and have a more accurate model. What nickle- dimes a project like this is all the secondary parts and pieces. In my experience, building up frames,suspension,and all the mechancials will be the easy part. Its the show quailty exterior works that will test your skills.

Your project is first class stuff and its kind of directed me towards the 427 again. What plans did you use? Just reviewing you post and this site, I have a pretty good outline of this frame build as original. For my experience the dual control arm front suspension is pretty straight forward. Now rear IRS will be new ground for me, but the engineering issues are the same.

Also, is it my understanding you are installing a solid rear end?

[Three Peaks]

Scott,
Obviously, you've been talking to Tim also!
I wanted to be careful mentioning his name without his permission as the High Tek thing kind of elicits some strong emotions and opinions on this forum.
From what I've been able to gather, he has some great ideas rattling around. Unfortunately, I'm thinking he will be awhile before they are available and therefore won't be in time for my build.
However, he is being very helpful in some other aspects of my build- aluminum pieces, and other pieces I may need he has offered to supply at reasonable prices. The frame he is selling looks identical to mine (once I finish the birdcage), so I am thinking his pieces will be perfect for what I need.
Grumpy will be supplying my suspension pieces and footboxes, and probably some other parts he specializes in.

Lewis,
Just keep dreaming and asking questions and the guys on this board will find a way to help you get to your dream. All it takes is money and patience- - Bob