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Date: Thu, 25 Jul 1996 14:10:16 -0400
From: "Christopher M. Delling" <cdelling@mail.ic.net>
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To: Melissa Mann <ccqetst2@best.com>
Subject: Re: Questions about Suspension Upgrade Kits
References: <838251555-0-ccqetst2@best.com>
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Melissa Mann wrote:
>
> I have an '80 MGB, and I've heard what *everyone* says about the handling of
>rubber
> Thanks in advance for any insight/advice you can offer.
>
> -- Melissa Mann
> 1980 MGB
I too have wondered about such things. I can't offer any hard knowledge
on this issue, but a few observations are worth making:
The later rubber bumper cars don't handle that much differently that the
chrome bumper models. The '74 1/2 thru '75 cars suffered from a higher
ride height (and corresponding C.G.), and no anti-roll bars. Later
models had anti-roll bars fitted, which improved handling greatly.
Many B's suffer from worn bushings, shocks, and springs. Before I
dropped any money on somthing new, I would make sure that the stock
suspension was up to snuff. You may find that the difference is
dramatic. I did.
One of the biggest reasons that a B doesn't handle as well as a new car
is the fact that it has a "live" solid rear axle. With no independant
suspension on the rear end, handling will NEVER be as good as a new
econobox.
All that said, I think that the stock set-up, well sorted out, will
handle adequately for most drivers. Some improvement in damping is
available by changing over to a SPAX set-up. While doing this, you may
want to consider going to a lower spring height, like previous cars.
Doing so will require changing many components, however, like
bump-stops, and sway-bars, so consider this in your cost. I would say
leave the coil-over kit for the racing crowd. I will be interested in
the opinions from others.
Regards,
Chris Delling
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