Keeping in mind that this car rides very well for a 48 year old car, with very limited rattling and a very straight gait, I feel like it's probably about time to replace the shocks, springs and control arm bushings. Since this is (obviously) a seasonal means of transport, I just need something that would qualify as good OEM replacements. Thanks in advance!
What about ball joints, inner/outer links, idler arm, etc? Are you doing the front and back bushings? I try to use all Moog components, KYB shocks(most value, there are better longer lasting shocks - most are NOT as OEM, they are better) Springs are another issue. There are many suggestions on the board depending on what you want to accomplish(sounds like you want stock ride and height). Your car has likely settled some so new springs are going to raise it up some. I would go to the MOOG catalog and use what they recommend - make sure to include all data (BBB, AC, etc).
Yes - all of that will be done before this year ends or once next year commences. I'm just trying to get a feel for what members as using for stock type stuff. The rear shocks were done a couple months and the sway bar was reinstalled. That alone made a big difference from the air shocks that were messing with the whole geometry of the car. I'd like to get the whole suspension squared away before next season really gets under way. Thanks!!
Brett, When I rebuilt the front suspension on my 71 the front springs were able to be reused. Rubber bushings were used throughout. Ride height was within spec. Before the rebuild a 1" spacer was used under the spring. The rear springs I used http://www.springsnthings.com/ . Very satisfied with the ride. Shocks are general replacements. Koni shocks stiffen the ride too much for my tastes.
I liked the ride height I had before the rebuild and put the springs back in with the spacer and it was way too high. I then removed the spacer and checked ride height per the chassis manual. Springs are still in there. http://www.v8buick.com/index.php?attachments/bittersweet-jpg.368338/
Gotcha! Sharp car! I came home from the hospital in bench seat 4-speed GS 350 that was the same color.
I have nice original springs with the chassis labels on them,but I couldn't bring myself to put them back in,when I had everything torn down. I normally use Moog springs for the stock and resto applications.
Just ordered all my suspension stuff for my 70 X yesterday all from Summit 100% Moog with KYB shocks $608 that's everything steering and suspension related minus springs , the "Buick Performance club" site has good spring info, George's site Don't fool with front upper bushings just kit the cross shaft kits ,they include the bushings plus allow for more camber
Measure the ride height. On a 70 GS 455, the front curb height should be 26 1/2 to the wheel well trim. On the rear, it should be 24 5/16 to the wheel well trim.
Measure the ride height. On a 70 GS 455, the front curb height should be 26 1/2 to the wheel well trim. On the rear, it should be 24 5/16 to the wheel well trim.
