Suspension rebuild and disc brake swap...by a noob for noobs

The alignment was a couple of weeks ago and I've been driving the car almost daily since then. There's still a little softness in the brake pedal, indicating some air in the lines. However, I'm waiting to re-bleed the system because I still need to replace my seeping proportioning valve (see my other thread on that).

As for driving quality, I've noticed a big improvement. For one thing, I no longer hear bushings squeak when I go over bumps. Even better, the car sways a LOT less in turns. Even without a sway bar it corners more or less like a new car. Not a sports car, mind you, but a typical modern car. I had already noticed an improvement after installing the new rear leaf springs but before rebuilding the front suspension. I'd say about half of the reduction in sway is due to the leaf springs, and the other half is due to the new bushings up front. Now even with the bench seat I don't feel like I'm sliding off every time I go around a corner.

In addition to the reduced roll, I notice the car feels much more connected to the road, especially going over rough areas at higher speeds. Part of that improvement must be due to the Michelin tires, which are far better than the cheapo white-stripe tires they replaced. But I think part of it also is the new bushings, and part is the positive caster. Overall the driving is a lot more predictable, which means safer and more enjoyable.

The braking action may be a little different with discs compared to drums, but the difference is not that radical. I can definitively say that new discs are better than old gouged-up drums, but I couldn't say how new discs would compare to new drums.

Last but not least, my stance is vastly improved, mostly due to the new rear leaf springs. Also, switching to large bolt pattern gave me an excuse to change wheel style. I think the rallye wheels compliment my car's trim better than the old "deluxe" wheel covers (even though I didn't install my trim rings--I posted about that over here).

On the whole I'm extremely pleased with my new suspension. I love driving my "new" car, and I have a great sense of accomplishment now that I really understand how the suspension works. Thanks to FABO for providing much of the information, parts and help I needed for this project. See you on the road!