Uneven converted suspension

[Lownslowlsc]

Well ever since I've been converted with the lowered aas kit (4.5 years) the rear left/right has been different heights, about .5" difference and it's noticeable. I originally installed them with some plain Jane isolators but upgraded to some thick prothanes about 3 years ago to get some more height. I do not recall if it was uneven prior to putting the new isolators in or even when I was on air, all I know is that it was lower then it is now.

What all is back there can wear out that could make that big of a difference that doesn't have anything to do with the kit? Iirc the fronts are both 26" give or take 1/4", the rear D. side is 26" and the Passenger side 26.5".

 

[driller]

I don't know the answer for sure but I remember reading it can be due to a difference in the way the springs are rotated when installed FWIW.

 

[markup97]

JP is correct, spring alignment on their perches can add/subtract up to 3/4" in height. I would check the direction of your pigtail orientation and see if they match. If so and you have this issue, rotate one of the springs to get the ride height to a level disposition.

 

[Lownslowlsc]

I remember matching them up the best I could putting both top ends of the springs on the lower slant side (Thus giving it a tad more height) of the upper factory base. Iirc the mount is made with a slight slant, It's been a couple years.. Perhaps one shifted? That'll be this weekends project.

 

[opalescent 96]

I have the same problem and I've seen answers stating that the springs can be installed in any orientation according to the Thunderbird shop manual. I have rotated my springs a few times without any difference btw. So I believe the shop manual is correct. Next time I have the rear suspension apart I'm going to switch them and see if the height changes sides.

You can smooth/chamfer your pigtail end with a grinder on the spring that is on the tall side, that would work. You smooth the end so the spring sits more snugly in the isolator. I did that to both my springs and got about .4-.5 less ride height

 

[Lownslowlsc]

Would it be possible too put a 1/4"-1/2" circular base the width of the lca hole and insert it beneath the lower spring?

I like what your suggesting, but if I lower the high side it'll lower the side i'm trying to even out, at least that's what I remember happening when messing with them the first time.

 

[opalescent 96]

Would it be possible too put a 1/4"-1/2" circular base the width of the lca hole and insert it beneath the lower spring?

I like what your suggesting, but if I lower the high side it'll lower the side i'm trying to even out, at least that's what I remember happening when messing with them the first time.

Sure why not, it would have to be strong enough not to break or crack

I know what you mean...that's possible I guess.

I think maybe the alignment is partially responsible. Because the passenger side wheel is toed in more to steer the car into the center of the road etc

Is yours lower on the driver side like mine?

 

[markup97]

By rotating the pigtails on my Mustang rear coil springs, I was able to change the ride height by 1/2" (depending on where the pigtail contacted the LCA spring perch). Perhaps the converted Lincoln is different?

 

[Lownslowlsc]

Checked the passenger side to see the spring position and then went to the drivers side spring. Got everything torn apart and that's when I noticed it....

Damn.

It's well rusted over so it has been broken for some time. I ended up rotating it anyways and ended up getting a 1/4" gain even with the broken spring. The drivers side moved up an equal amount so all I got out of the whole deal was a little more height.. I'd rotate the passenger side but that would lower the drivers side..Took it for a drive and still no noises present and the height is still about 1/4" higher on both sides. It has been like this for a while so I'll probably just leave it be.

I do have a spare set of sport springs that i'll look into cutting if need be.

The darn springs lasted 3 winters, pathetic.

 

[markup97]

At least you have it figured out now!

Looks like junk spring material to me, should have lasted longer than 3 winters.