Totally Tubular

"MM54" (mm54mk2) 01/25/2017 at 21:03 • Filed to: '71Chevelle

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Despite a suspension overhaul being last on the list of Things for the Chevelle (trans, engine, bodywork, and overall drivability slot in above it) I have a bad case of Why-Replace-When-You-Can-Upgrade and have ended up with full tubular rear control arms with bushings to replace the 46-year-old originals.

Much better than stampings with 46-year-old rubber bushings.

I did the front end (bushings, balljoints, tie rod, idler arm, drag link, sway bar bushings, shocks etc) several years ago (shortly before putting the car away for those years) with stock parts, so this is the only handing upgrade present. I have new rear shocks too, but they’re just OEM until the aforementioned major-overhaul (which is several years out).

I just hope they don’t ride too harsh. I’m used to floating along on my cloud.

crowmolly > MM54 01/25/2017 at 21:05

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NICE!

They are a solid upgrade- the stock stuff is laughably bad. Car should handle better but also launch flatter.

MM54 > crowmolly 01/25/2017 at 21:26

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“Launch”
*Looks at powerglide*

Maybe after I get this M20 in there. That comes after I finish the trunk rust repair and rear suspension (and probably some knee-knockers as low-cost-high-time to let the wallet recover).

It will be good to know it’s not twisting around when I inevitably beat on it with the 4-speed; as it is with the long-gone bushings it’s scary to hit a bump with the rear axle while turning at any speed. Feels like it’s going to come out from under the car.

crowmolly > MM54 01/25/2017 at 21:28

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LOL. Muncie will be a big step up for sure.

PowderHound > MM54 01/25/2017 at 21:33

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I too fall victim to this, albeit a totally different vehicle. sometimes pricier than OEM but worth it

MM54 > PowderHound 01/25/2017 at 22:08

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I have a really hard time not wanting to do upgrades and modifications on my crown vic but it’s so far gone (terminal rot) I just can’t justify it.