Front End Camber Problem After Rebuild

[Buck Naked]

After rebuilding the front end (balljoints, bushings, tie-rod ends, idler arm, and springs) I have a serious positive camber problem (top of wheels lean out). I believe the stock spring rate for the car is 380 lbs, but I was unable to locate a stock set and used heavier springs at 550 lbs. The car is a 70 vette with a small block and as far as i know uses much of the same front end components as the bb optioned cars (except for spring rate). I have made the maximum adjustment to camber by shimming the upper control arms to the point where there are but a few threads left on the cross-shaft bolt. That helped a little, but there is still way too much positive camber. Im guessing the problem is the springs, but have been assured (by the vendor) that they can be used on the small block car. Any help is appreciated.

[71Cnet]

try calling an alignment shop and see what they say. after i rebuilt the front end of my dodge. i had acouple of problems like that. the big difference is you have springs but i dont think that would be a problem. the only other thing i can think of is try adjusting the tyrods out. im not sure if it would help. good luck.

[MagicRat]

Thats a HUGE increase in spring rate. The bb does not weigh that much ore than a sb. Chances are the ride is going to be punishing when its on the road. IMHO look for the correct springs.

[462cid]

Originally Posted by MagicRat

Thats a HUGE increase in spring rate. The bb does not weigh that much ore than a sb. Chances are the ride is going to be punishing when its on the road. IMHO look for the correct springs.

Oh GOD yes that's too much spring. I can get the correct springs for a '70 GS455...I can't beleive that springs for ANY year Vette are unavailable. If a spring shop can't get vette springs, that spring shop simply isn't the best- look elsewhere, they are available wiothout question

[Buck Naked]

Originally Posted by 462cid

Oh GOD yes that's too much spring. I can get the correct springs for a '70 GS455...I can't beleive that springs for ANY year Vette are unavailable. If a spring shop can't get vette springs, that spring shop simply isn't the best- look elsewhere, they are available wiothout question

Actually, the front end alignment (toe) was way off. After doing a quick alignment using a tape measure I was able to drive the car. The problem was the toe-out was so severe, it was causing the wheels to camber positive when driving forward, then negative when driving in reverse.

[MagicRat]

Originally Posted by Buck Naked

Actually, the front end alignment (toe) was way off. After doing a quick alignment using a tape measure I was able to drive the car. The problem was the toe-out was so severe, it was causing the wheels to camber positive when driving forward, then negative when driving in reverse.

That's really, really bad toe!