Rear Spring

[TeeLew]

I've got a set of the kel-trac studs or more accurately all thread.

I don't trust them since there is no way to tighten them to the car.

They're a better steel than all-thread, by a good chunk. This about the same for all studs. Thread lock or even a dab of silicone does wonders. There's not much torque on the stud when loosening/tightening the nut.

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[K4fxd]

They're a better steel than all-thread, by a good chunk.

Maybe he changed vendors but the set I have is just regular all thread. Even if hardened I would prefer a real stud like an ARP headstud.

Using something like red locktite wouldn't work unless you are comfortable with 4 inches of the stud hanging out in the air.

It takes an extra minuet to swap the bolts to the studs and back but I get a warm fuzzy feeling doing it this way.

 

[TeeLew]

Exactly, and we know that it's more common to run a stiff rear spring like that. I just don't like the rear of the car stiff and want to 'bracket' a range that works well for me. I suspect the 500 is going to be too soft, but it will be an interesting test, regardless.

The rear end subframe is back assembled and under the car. Now I have to get it all bolted into place. I've taken a couple big swings on this one. I hope it's not a disaster, lol!

 

[K4fxd]

I go by lap times. Have you tested with lighter springs?

 

[TeeLew]

I go by lap times.

Bingo, we have a winner.

 

[TeeLew]

The project has been a bit of a slog. I guess I need to do a separate write up about it. I'll do that after I know if it works. Anyway, after all sorts of playing around today, I finally have everything where it's supposed to be and almost all together. I'll have first impressions tomorrow.

BNight -
I think conventional wisdom would agree that the Ohlins dampers and spring rates are miles above the Ford PP package. The point is that you haven't tried the *Ohlins* with diffferent rates on just one end. You've tried their entire package, which we know is really good.

I'm on a 450#/in front spring and I've played around with the rear, all on Magneride. This is just more playing around. If I were going out for qualifying next session, I'd be on your setup. I just wanted to feel what something "too soft" would feel like. If the front is properly supported, then are we *really* sure it's "too soft?" I don't know know the answer to these questions, but I'm going to find out. I've got 650, 750, 850, and 950 pairs sitting in a tote.

The 7" rear spring is the perfect length for easy spring changes on my setup. I've got my fingers crossed that ride height won't be too far off. I don't like the idea of the spring platform jack-screw excessively exposed. I'll probably make spring spacers for ride height tuning if I need.

 

[K4fxd]

These are heavy pigs but you won't know till you try.

Schumacher's setup was miles away from Barrichello's

 

[WItoTX]

I've been out of town too long. I think you are going to be way too soft. With out going to coil overs, I think 600-650 is about as soft as I would want to go. But I am looking forward to another datapoint.

The perk is, you get the wild opposite end of the spectrum, and can work your way back. I will be looking forward to your takeaways once you get the 500 tested out. What are you doing with your dampers? IIRC, you have 500 dampers, can they handle a 500 lb spring rate?

 

[K4fxd]

I am looking forward to another datapoint.

This

 

[TeeLew]

I've been out of town too long. I think you are going to be way too soft. With out going to coil overs, I think 600-650 is about as soft as I would want to go. But I am looking forward to another datapoint.

The perk is, you get the wild opposite end of the spectrum, and can work your way back. I will be looking forward to your takeaways once you get the 500 tested out. What are you doing with your dampers? IIRC, you have 500 dampers, can they handle a 500 lb spring rate?

I only have the Shelby Struts, not shocks. The rears are stock. It's kind of a lark. Let's see what we find.

 

[WItoTX]

I only have the Shelby Struts, not shocks. The rears are stock. It's kind of a lark. Let's see what we find.

Are all they body panels the same color?!

I am only messing with ya. Your car sounds like quite the combination of S550 parts from across the platform. And some custom bits as well.

 

[TeeLew]

Quick update, it's on the ground and I've been around the block. It's got a gear whine that's concerning me. The diff groans a little turning in a cul-de-sac, but it's fine. No real read on the springs, but it drives.

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