Rear suspension update.

[Dixie]

I have finally decided to do something about the rear end on my Viper. It is a Cortina which needs correct setting up.

I am going to convert it to a 5 link system. When I took the complete assy out of the car, it clearly showed why the back end was not very good.

All the Void bushes were corroded and collasped. I am going to make up new arms with rose joints at one end so that I can adjust the axle, the Panhard rod will get it centered correctly.

I couldn't understand why one wheel was in line with the rear wheel arch, but the other was 15mm out, when I jacked up the car, I was able to push the axle from side to side about 20mm, no wonder it handled like a pig.

If anyone is remotely interested, I will keep a diary of events, from taking it out, building a new one and re-installing it. Plus send in some photos.

[kevchard]

Hi Mark
I am glad to see you are entring into 'Viperism'. You would be fine just to get new void bushed fitted (ar5e of a job) and put it back together. Surely it is overkill making up new arms etc?
Does this mean tho that you have access to a machine shop (think carefully as i have lots of odd jobs for beer money that need doing ).
I am still going the Granada Cossie wishbone route when i get around to it.
Please keep us informed.
Cheers
Kevin

[Dixie]

Hi Kev.

The Company I work for has 2 full blown engineering shops, complete with every tool you could imagine, plus lathes, Mills, Boring machines etc etc, MIG, TIG and gas welding, plus plasma cutting.

I am going to put Poly Bushes in, but I am going to make up new arms that will be adjustable, its actually a fairly simple job.

I am reasonably handy with Lathes, Mills and welding kit, there isn't much that I or my Fitters couldn't make.

One of the plus sides to being a Operations Director, I can get stuff done.

More than happy to help you where I can.

When I visit next time, you will have to let me know what you want.

[Miket]

I must congratulate you Viper guys, you are a breed on your own.

Keep us posted Dixie, It will make interesting reading.

[kevchard]

Hi Mark
I am after a set of Escutcheon plates for the roll hoops. I don't mind paying, but the average figure of £20 per plate seems a bit steep for a glorified 'washer'.
I am after a bezel made up to make a neat face for my dashboard. I want to sink the speedo behind the dash (approx 1 - 2"), so i need a fake bezel for the dash and a thick reveal made up to line the dashboard. I will try and do some sketches that make a bit more sense.
When are you hoping to get all your mods done by?
Cheers
Kevin
PS I will get the kettle warmed up for your next visit.

[Dixie]

Hi Kev.

Escutcheon plates are quite difficult to do, they need to be stamped out to make a good job of it. I have not got the correct size stamp.

I tried, but ended up buying some, these were rubbish. I am going to put some DAX ones on, these have a rubber grommit to stop vibration.

Should be able to do something with the spedo, let me know.

I plan to have all this done by the end of January.

I have just made up the support bars for my Jack stands, photo attached. They are not cleaned up yet, welding not the best, but good enough. The bars go through the plate and are welded from the back and then ground flat, you cannot see it from the front of the car and looks quite good.

Should be with you in a few weeks.

Mark

[Dixie]

Kev.

Photos of Jack Stands from the web site in the USA that you gave me. The stands took a bit of working out, when they are polished and painted will look ok.

Mark

[hairysanta]

Hi Mark,
how thick have you made your jack stands where the jack would fit to lift them
pete up in bristol

[Dixie]

Hi Pete.

The bars that hold the stands on are 15mm Diameter turned down to 10mm and welded to a plate that will be fixed to the chassis. The only bit you see is the bigger 15mm diameter part of the bar. I had to do it this way because of the exisiting holes that are on the car, as it is painted etc, didn't want to start cutting bigger holes. They are only for show, and I doubt that they would stand the weight of the car if they were used for real.

When I offered them up to the car, there is only 2mm aroung each tube spare. There was originally bump bars and over riders which used differant hole centres and were fixed with simple threaded bar, these solid bars look much better in my opinion.

Why do you ask? I have I done something wrong with them?

[kevchard]

Hi Mark
Have you got any pics of where the brackets join the chassis? We haven't got any holes in the bodywork or brackets on the chassis.
Cheers
Kevin