Like all good cruiserheads, I'm pondering the next major revision to the ole' cruiser and I'm toying with what coil springs are good for and if its a good option if I'm willing to put up with the install.
First of all, what are the advantages of coil suspension? I know very little about the advantages/disadvantages of various suspension configurations. Wouldn't mind it if a few folks could point out some descriptive writeups if possible to help in my edification. My intuition tells me that I can get much greater travel with coil springs, and removing the front leaves will free up some space for future mods (hydraulic steering, etc), with the possible bonus that some of the play in my steering will go away (warn bushings, old springs, bent shackles, the works).
Secondly, has anyone done this who could describe the fabrication requirements? My biggest concern (next to cost) is going to be the availablility of time and equipment (since I am a shop-mooch and will gladly alter my schedule to use your tools rather than buy mine). If I have to do some serious fabricating, this will cost me in time.
Thirdly, what are the likely pitfalls in installation and use after installation?
Any input is good intput, and fyi, here's the current specs on the rig:
2/76 body/frame.
305 HT engine (from what I understand this was an early 80's IROC engine before the PO dropped it in).
31" x ?8"? tires
Extended shackles (they look to be about 2" longer than the stock)
Leaf springs (I think they are 2" lift, but that's all I know)
Stock manual steering configuration.
First of all, what are the advantages of coil suspension? I know very little about the advantages/disadvantages of various suspension configurations. Wouldn't mind it if a few folks could point out some descriptive writeups if possible to help in my edification. My intuition tells me that I can get much greater travel with coil springs, and removing the front leaves will free up some space for future mods (hydraulic steering, etc), with the possible bonus that some of the play in my steering will go away (warn bushings, old springs, bent shackles, the works).
Secondly, has anyone done this who could describe the fabrication requirements? My biggest concern (next to cost) is going to be the availablility of time and equipment (since I am a shop-mooch and will gladly alter my schedule to use your tools rather than buy mine). If I have to do some serious fabricating, this will cost me in time.
Thirdly, what are the likely pitfalls in installation and use after installation?
Any input is good intput, and fyi, here's the current specs on the rig:
2/76 body/frame.
305 HT engine (from what I understand this was an early 80's IROC engine before the PO dropped it in).
31" x ?8"? tires
Extended shackles (they look to be about 2" longer than the stock)
Leaf springs (I think they are 2" lift, but that's all I know)
Stock manual steering configuration.