Original DAX Suspension

[Oz_Ralph]

Does anyone know the original DAX suspension specifications?
I do mean original - the Pat Hanson chassis (Jan 1985) before DAX started making their own. about shocks/springs my (photocopied) DAX Manual says "DJ Sportscars supplied" and has no specs.

The rear has sagged an astonishing amount - there are 1 3/4" of spacers on the top mount, but it can still bottom out.
I have put in some other springs/shocks that I got hold of (same shocks, not adjustable - much stiffer springs) but they are too firm (without the spacers the rear still sits about 1 1/2" too high - they only settle 1/4" after a run (10 mile)).

Any ideas of recommended spring rates or has anyone replaced the shocks/springs on an early car?
Or anything to help me sort out what to buy -- or do I go to the specialists?

cheers

.... Ralph
_____________________________________
20 year old car .... still a work in progress

[dinosoar]

I have not replaced the springs on an early car but if your problem is bottoming out rather than ride height the you can make up some shims out of nylon or polythene sheet (25l oil drum). Cut out about 1 1/2" circles and then cut or punch a hole the same size as the damper rod, so you have a washer. Then remove a portion so it is shaped like a keyhole.
These can then be slipped in between the bump stop and the top of the damper (slide rubber bump stop down first)
This will allow the upward travel to be limited and introduce the bump stop earlier.
Otherwise if it is spring ratings that are the problem. Then i wouldn't have thought they would be very much different to current spec for the same weight.
Hope that helps.

Andy

[Clarkson]

Originally Posted by dinosoar

I have not replaced the springs on an early car but if your problem is bottoming out rather than ride height the you can make up some shims out of nylon or polythene sheet (25l oil drum). Cut out about 1 1/2" circles and then cut or punch a hole the same size as the damper rod, so you have a washer. Then remove a portion so it is shaped like a keyhole.
These can then be slipped in between the bump stop and the top of the damper (slide rubber bump stop down first)
This will allow the upward travel to be limited and introduce the bump stop earlier.
Otherwise if it is spring ratings that are the problem. Then i wouldn't have thought they would be very much different to current spec for the same weight.
Hope that helps.



Andy

I think you'll find the springs are old and weak mate. Just like my old spax crap!