I would like to start out by saying how much it is appreciated as to how much you guys/gals share here! I have learned a ton and it is evident most if not all here are very willing to share in the learning process associated with these awesome vehicles.
I am at the point where I am going to remove the 72 body from the chassis so I can have it sandblasted and powder coated.
My objective with the body off is to replace the fuel, brake lines and do any suspension modifications desired prior to setting body back down on chassis due to easy access.
A bit about my objective for the car once it is back on the road:
- This car will never end up on a race or road track.
- It is intended to be a family project that in the end we can jump in and drive on the weekends wherever we would like to go, maybe take part in some "Roll ins", maybe run the Route 66, who knows.
- I would like to be able to run through the curves and not have to fight the floating or swaying of which is normal for this body.
- Basically the goal is to have it ride like a new car.
- No plans on huge HP motor, but that can change.
- As of now it does not have Positraction but more than likely will in the future.
- Planning on an overdrive transmission.
- Possibly thinking about installing a rack and pinion steering system if it is recommended.
- I would like to drop the car 2" in front with drop spindles and at least 1" in the rear through the use of Viking coil overs front and back.
- Since the car would more than likely not end up with huge HP was thinking of just freshening up the rear drum brakes and front discs.
So to my questions.
What suspension modifications would you recommend to achieve a road hugging driver?
- I like the Global West rear coil over system with the upper crossmember ,as well as their upper adjustable control arms to accomodate for new pinion angle since car will be lowered.
- Is there any benefit to replacing the rear lower factory control arms?
- What about the rear, flimsy body braces?
- Would there be any benefit for my vehicle to go with a rear sway bar?
- On the front end, since being a "driver" is there any reason to go with tubular upper and lowers?
- The plan is to replace the body mounts with rubber and the front sway bar to have poly.
I hope to get some input here from others with the same type build and what modifications they have done as well as their overall experience with the mods.
Sincerely,
Jim