Cutting strut rod bushings for correct geometry?

autoxcuda said
I understand clearly what you are talking about. I have a very complete selection of A-body suspension pieces stock and aftermarket less that 30 feet from me. Those early one piece bushing blow. Especially in poly. Moog only sells the improve two piece style and it not just because they are easier to install.

Not many people want to locate a pay for 73-76 strut rods. And most of the people selling them can't ID what they have. And the poly bushings are still too thick for those. I've run the cut poly bushing on the 73-76 strut rods too.

I understand suspension design and tested and been part of championship oval track cars enough to know what matters and what doesn't. You are one of those guy that believes the factory suspension is 100% perfect to the 0.001" for everyones needs and wants. A factory design has all kinds of compromises in regards to anti dive, scrub, bump steer, ackermann, parts sharing, economics of scale, liability, etc.

Geez shouldn't modify a motor either. Leave it all stock. But that's ok to modify, because you understand that.

If I was involved with championship black top oval racing as you are . I wouldn't be using stamped steel arms and struts from the 60's. With whats on the market today there is tubular arms and coil overs. also cambered spindles. and suspension built for evey application. I am not saying I am the professional here. But I am stating facts on how the average person can resolve a problem without a saw and a hammer.

That sprint car in my profile is not something I pulled out of a book. Its here and my sonand I take it apart and put it back together weekly. set ups are different for every track and track conditions. Every change is kept on file. for every race. We are still learning this car and take all the advise given to us and try it. Mayby that is why we have the sponcers we have. I never shy away from good advice.

My list of racecar mechanical experience goes from Top fuel to modified nascar. But I stiil take any properly explained advice to heart.

Please don't tell others to modify their steering components beyond there design specification. This can become dangerous and liable. There is a engineered specification for all parts. and yes you can modify any at your own risk. I am telling you that altering these bushings can cause the ends to break on the rods. I have seen it . The results are not usually good. If you do it without a problem then that is fine. But who is to say the person following your advice has your professional knowledge and skills. The right saw or hammer size. These are steering components. Not engine parts.

My son and I discuss all changes we make among ourself and other freinds who race in all classes of the sport . Before we make the change to our race bikes , cars , and trucks and sleds advice is used from all input . We are always building new toys for him to race. Saftey is always the first conideration before the change is made. Maybe thats why he is still with me. I love him and it is my upmost duty that he out lives me. .

Now all that said Use the correct parts and feel safe. Why put a question mark after safety.