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Author Topic:   Cal tracs with composite springs
hotmod
Journeyman

Posts: 3
From: Anchorage, Alaska
Registered: Feb 2004

posted 02-14-2004 03:19 AM     Click Here to See the Profile for hotmod   Click Here to Email hotmod     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Hello,
Nice site! Having lurked here for a day or two, some vary useful information has come my way. Thank you, but I still have some questions.
Just got some Cal Tracs and a set Flex-a-Form composite 225 lb/in leaf springs. The traction bars are older but never used. The side plates are different than newer bars as they don��t have a second set of lower holes for adjustability. Is anyone familiar with the different side plates? Or know the measurement from the spring eye bushing to the three holes on the newer type? I��m thinking of making a new set of side plates.
The springs have a 1 1/2'��poly front spring eye bushing. The stock front eye is 2�� so the replacement aluminum bushings with the bars are 2��
Should I,
1) Cut down the aluminum 2�� bushing to 1 1/2��. Mild drag use is likely.

2) Modify the poly bushing to accept the bar and side plates. Mostly used for street and some auto cross and road race. I am also considering clamping the bar to the spring so the suspension will squat under braking.

3) Run the springs with no bar and pray for traction. This is really not an option.

Also, what is the extension for the front bushing carrier like? I guess it would be some kind of protection added to the top of the spring. Could someone provide a picture or a detailed description?

Please give your opinion on how to install/setup the rear suspension on my car. Any input would be appreciated.
Chuck

[This message has been edited by hotmod (edited 02-14-2004).]

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steve'66
Gearhead

Posts: 7226
From: Sonoma,CA,USA
Registered: Mar 2000

posted 02-14-2004 07:10 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for steve'66   Click Here to Email steve'66     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Chuck,

The top of the aluminum forward ends of the springs will have to be extended towards the rear about an inch. You'll have to unbolt the ends and have aluminum pieces heli-arc welded to protect the springs from the cal-tracs. Use aluminum bushings in the front and epoxy them into the aluminum ends.

I'll try to get you a pic later, maybe tomorrow. Welcome to M&M!

SteveW

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hotmod
Journeyman

Posts: 3
From: Anchorage, Alaska
Registered: Feb 2004

posted 02-14-2004 09:43 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for hotmod   Click Here to Email hotmod     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Hi Steve,
Thanks for the welcome and the info. That,s a big help.I sure like your car too A pic. would be nice but I think your description is got me the idea.
Chuck

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steve'66
Gearhead

Posts: 7226
From: Sonoma,CA,USA
Registered: Mar 2000

posted 02-15-2004 03:29 AM     Click Here to See the Profile for steve'66   Click Here to Email steve'66     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Chuck,

You're welcome, I'll see how much I can photograph when it's already installed in the car.

SteveW

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steve'66
Gearhead

Posts: 7226
From: Sonoma,CA,USA
Registered: Mar 2000

posted 02-15-2004 06:50 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for steve'66   Click Here to Email steve'66     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Chuck,

Did you get the pic?

SteveW

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hotmod
Journeyman

Posts: 3
From: Anchorage, Alaska
Registered: Feb 2004

posted 02-15-2004 10:36 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for hotmod   Click Here to Email hotmod     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
quote:
Originally posted by steve'66:
Chuck,

Did you get the pic?

SteveW


Steve,
Yes I did and it looks good.
Thank you, Chuck

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