The Forward Look Network
The Forward Look Network
Search | Statistics | User Listing Forums | Chat | eBay | Calendars | Albums | Skins | Language
You are logged in as a guest. ( logon | register )

Front suspension - Volare clip
Jump to page : 1 2
Now viewing page 1 [50 messages per page]
View previous thread :: View next thread
   Forward Look Technical Discussions -> General Technical Discussion and TroubleshootingMessage format
 
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-08-12 12:44 AM (#568273)
Subject: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
Has anybody used a Volare F/M/J front clip on their cars?
Top of the page Bottom of the page
mstrug
Posted 2018-08-12 6:11 AM (#568281 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert 5K+

Posts: 6487
50001000100100100100252525
Location: Newark, Texas (Fort Worth)
You just need the spindles/knuckles etc... Don't chop your frame.

http://arengineering.com/tech/mopar-musclecar-brake-upgrade/

Read.

Research.

Rejuvenate.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
uncltank
Posted 2018-08-12 10:42 AM (#568297 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Extreme Veteran

Posts: 380
100100100252525
Location: Kennewick Wa
I would NEVER do this again. On my '57 Dodge. The engine not centered leads to modifications of trans hump, steering column.
Be VERY careful on measurements to replace bumper mounting. It is NOT a simple thing!
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Mopar1
Posted 2018-08-12 12:49 PM (#568302 - in reply to #568297)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert

Posts: 3027
2000100025
Location: N.W. Fla.
mstrug is spot on, just get disc spindles.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-08-12 3:05 PM (#568307 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: RE: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
Wow, I was thinking good idea. Are the front end pieces for 1958 MoPar suspensions readily available?? Steering boxes? I've never driven my car, it has 80,000 original miles but I don't know if the box is good or not. Rest of the car is pretty good.
I was thinking of swapping for high speed driving, I like to cruise at speeds higher than most. We had a few 57/58 MoPars back in the day and 80mph wasnt a problem, but thats going by memory!

I just wrecked a 1982 Cordoba J body and kept the whole front end. The spindles are J body, I believe the same as a Volare.

Just so you all know, I could care less about engine placement and bumper stuff, I have a bit of fabrication under my belt, that stuff doesnt scare me. But if you think a TRUE 100mph cruising would be possible with the stock front end (rebuilt of course) and swapped spindles I would go that route no problem. Just give me your honest best input, and I will listen.....

My car was a flathead 6, long gone.... and I need to fabricate engine mounts for a small block LA.... I have a healthy hydraulic roller 360 I might run, only reason I don't WANT to is it looks wrong IMO.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-08-12 4:14 PM (#568309 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
Upper ball joint the same for both cars..... Moog K772 Bottom ball a different number but I'm guessing the stud the same dimensions/tapers both lower ball joint. If the height of the spindles are the same it's gold I assume?

Has anybody here put an F/M/J - Volare spindle on a 57/58/59? Is the track reasonably the same? Anybody know?

We drove 57-59 Mopars 30+ years ago, we are all talking and agree they drove nice. I've looked and front end stuff is available so I'm gonna say I'm probably going to use my EARS and do the swap you guys suggest. This advice is much appreciated!

Anybody run a LA small block (Or B/RB) in a previous flathead 6 car? It looks like the flathead mounted up front. I can make mounts or.....

THANKS!
Top of the page Bottom of the page
GregCon
Posted 2018-08-12 5:11 PM (#568311 - in reply to #568309)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert

Posts: 2524
2000500
Location: Houston
The cars drive very well with a good condition stock suspension. I'd lose the drum brakes but otherwise....
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-08-12 8:32 PM (#568321 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: RE: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
Unless I'm missing something the Volare spindles bolting on isn't appearing to be a "bolt on"....?
Am I missing something?

This is from THIS forum.....
http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=35336
Top of the page Bottom of the page
57burb
Posted 2018-08-12 10:04 PM (#568325 - in reply to #568321)
Subject: RE: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert

Posts: 3966
200010005001001001001002525
Location: DFW, TX
Don't bother with a suspension swap. Wally Parks' 1957 Plymouth "Suddenly" went 183 mph with an injected stroker Hemi and the stock suspension. Definitely get brakes upgraded if you really plan to drive it 100+ regularly.

Jim Rawa documented his method for adding front disk brakes to these cars:
https://m.facebook.com/furyjim.rawa/albums/10210587894870246/
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Mopar1
Posted 2018-08-13 12:36 PM (#568364 - in reply to #568325)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert

Posts: 3027
2000100025
Location: N.W. Fla.
I used '77 NYer disc spindles on my '60 Plym. They mount with Ball joints, just install new ones.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Powerflite
Posted 2018-08-13 2:25 PM (#568370 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert 5K+

Posts: 9604
500020002000500100
Location: So. Cal
I recommend just doing the Scarebird disc swap. It's a lot easier and less trouble, but does require 15" wheels. Use AAJ if you want 14". I don't think that saving $200 is worth the trouble of searching through the wrecking yards or craigslist, but to each, their own.

As far as handling at speed, I have taken my '58 DeSoto up over 90mph on many occasions and it handles awesomely - better than many cars from the early 2000's. I just drove my '58 Coronet 500 miles last weekend at 75-80 mph the whole way and it also handles well. It would handle even better if I changed the rear springs to stiffen them up like I did on my DeSoto. I was VERY thankful for the Scarebird disc upgrade throughout following may people down the mountain who don't know how to drive downhill properly, and also on 2 emergency stops that put the system to the test. These emergency stops happen all too frequently in LA traffic to the point that I would be afraid to drive on the freeway without significant upgrades to the brake system. I don't want to lose my car due to a close encounter with an idiot in a camry or BMW SUV.

In response to the original question, the Volare' clip would be an enormous amount of work to achieve......nothing. It would probably even reduce the performance depending on the condition & type of bushings used, and from increasing the weight of the front end.

Edited by Powerflite 2018-08-13 2:39 PM
Top of the page Bottom of the page
hemidenis
Posted 2018-08-13 7:46 PM (#568382 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert

Posts: 3887
20001000500100100100252525
Location: Northen Virginia
Hard to predict how long the suspension parts are going to last adding the 1700 pounds to the normal operation weight.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
pennerdodge
Posted 2018-08-14 12:19 PM (#568407 - in reply to #568309)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Regular

Posts: 82
252525
Location: Eastern Manitoba


Anybody run a LA small block (Or B/RB) in a previous flathead 6 car? It looks like the flathead mounted up front. I can make mounts or..!
I think you need to either replace the crossmember with one from a car with a poly v8, or else weld the mounts from a v8 car on at the right position. Once the motor mount brackets are there, i think it is just a matter of getting the right motor mounts to put in an LA engine. Somewhere on this site there was a thread where someone had cut the crossmember center section out, and welded in the center section from a v8 car, complete with engine mounting brackets . This would eliminate the chance of getting things misaligned, but if you are disassembling the whole suspension anyway then it would probably make the most sense to replace the crossmember.
I would be interested to see how this turns out, I bought a 69 polara 318 3 on the tree to use as a powertrain donor for my flat six 58 dodge, but so far i have only gotten as far as swapping the rear end.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
60 dart
Posted 2018-08-15 4:19 AM (#568453 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert 5K+

Posts: 8947
50002000100050010010010010025
Location: WHEELING,WV.>>>HOME OF WWVA
not valare but imperial done by another member bob sapp/recondo -----------------------------------------------later

http://forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=44403&post...
Top of the page Bottom of the page
BigBlockMopar
Posted 2018-08-18 6:07 PM (#568610 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert

Posts: 3575
20001000500252525
Location: Netherlands
My 1960 NewYorker at 90-100mph highway cruising (just the speedometer showing);

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8cwKZ_T07YI

Stock suspension, but lowered.
Upgraded front drums to '73 Chrysler disc brakes, rotors and calipers. Stock '60 spindles.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-10-02 9:26 PM (#571081 - in reply to #568610)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
BigBlockMopar - 2018-08-18 6:07 PM


Stock suspension, but lowered.
Upgraded front drums to '73 Chrysler disc brakes, rotors and calipers. Stock '60 spindles.


OK. Gotta ask!!!
How did you bolt 73 Chrysler discs to your stock spindles? Did you use 73 Chrysler hubs? Make a bracket??
RockAuto lists inner and outer wheel bearings for a 1958 Dodge as the exact same inner and outer wheel bearings for a 1968 Dodge Coronet, so I don't doubt the hubs can be made to work, if not just bolt on. Caliper brackets though....? Any brake pics???
Top of the page Bottom of the page
BigBlockMopar
Posted 2018-10-09 3:57 PM (#571394 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert

Posts: 3575
20001000500252525
Location: Netherlands
I made a collar for the outer bearing on the spindle, so the '73 C-body bearings can be used.
Also used a GM transmission convertor pump seal on the inside larger bearing.
Made adapter plates to mount the brackets to.

Here's some more info about the conversion;
https://www.bigblockmopar.nl/2011/01/1960-chrysler-newyorker-discbra...

Also did the same conversion on my '62 NY wagon.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Handygun
Posted 2018-10-09 8:18 PM (#571406 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Elite Veteran

Posts: 1117
1000100
Location: STL, MO
You would have to really search to find a worse handling, steering, torsion bar car than one of the sideways t-bar/strut f/m/j bodies.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Chrycoman
Posted 2018-10-22 2:50 AM (#572147 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert

Posts: 1819
1000500100100100
Location: Vancouver, BC

As an owner of an M body 1989 Plymouth Caravelle Salon (Gran Fury Salon to those outside of Canada) with 281,000 Km. and good shock absorbers, I must disagree. With tire pressure around 33 psi I have no problem with handling or ride. It's great on the highway with no fighting with the steering even in heavy crosswinds. It's a cruiser, not a racer, having travelled Vancouver to Toronto in 2010, and back to Vancouver in Dec, 2014 (three snow storms and a dead battery). My only gripe it does not have cruise control.

Neatest thing is that people come up and say they had a Caravelle just like it XX years ago, and the hood rusted in the same spot. (It's rusting on either side of the raised portion that meets with the top of the grille)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
AceS
Posted 2018-10-30 5:17 AM (#572608 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: RE: Front suspension - Volare clip



Veteran

Posts: 281
100100252525
Location: WA/USA
I did this to my 60 Plymo in the early 90's using a 78 Aspen Wagon donor (slant 6 overdrive car). There were few good options back then. I also z-d the frame with new square tube to lower the car and built my own motor mounts to support a 383/400/440. It was all lined up with the stock transmission cross member as the starting point using a 2nd Gen Charger transmission mount. Nothing on the firewall or floor had to be modified except that I converted the floor to accommodate an 833 4-speed (also using the Aspen hump + pedals). Stock 440 HP cast iron manifolds (68 Charger) fit perfectly.

The inner fenders had to be slightly trimmed to clear the upper a-arms for max travel and the front radiator clip had to be notched about 2 inches to clear the new frame rails. Had I not z-d the frame to lower the car it could have been planned to bolt all this stuff right in without modification. With some measuring and planning it wasn't that difficult but was a lot of work. How I approached this was to hang the engine/trans in the air off the stock trans cross member and then measured and planned the frame/suspension around it.

Not sure how helpful this is to you because my frame is fabricated from the firewall forward and spliced into the back half of the stock subframe. I can't say how well the F/M/J suspension would adapt to stock frame rails. I never considered it at the time because I wanted to get the car down on the ground which meant z-ing the frame.

Considering what is now available, I probably wouldn't do this again unless I just could not find the parts to also make the power steering conversion.



Top of the page Bottom of the page
Mopar1
Posted 2018-10-30 11:03 AM (#572615 - in reply to #572608)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert

Posts: 3027
2000100025
Location: N.W. Fla.
would help if you found one with less than 50K on it, but throw in the expense of rebuilding a front with 100k+ miles on it plus the work involved....
Top of the page Bottom of the page
1960fury
Posted 2018-10-30 4:31 PM (#572634 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert 5K+

Posts: 7385
50002000100100100252525
Location: northern germany
The stock suspension works so unbelievable well with some relatively inexpensive mods, you can race almost everything, "supercars" of course excepted. The limiting factor is not the excellent 57-61 double control arm/torsion bar system, it is the rear axle. My little Fury is well known in my neck of the woods, all with slightly modified suspension/weight distribution upgrades, I haven't driven another car that goes thru curves like on rails like my 60. Keep the stock setup.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-11-10 11:08 PM (#573299 - in reply to #571406)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
Handygun - 2018-10-09 8:18 PM

You would have to really search to find a worse handling, steering, torsion bar car than one of the sideways t-bar/strut f/m/j bodies.


Yeah I disagree too. I owned and raced a J body for years. I now own a J body I drive at high speeds regularly. No idea what you are talking about.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Handygun
Posted 2018-11-13 4:38 PM (#573464 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Elite Veteran

Posts: 1117
1000100
Location: STL, MO
T bar doubles as a strut, alignment issues, k frame issues, sag, front end wanders like a 2 dollar whore, . MoPar gave up longitudal bars to reduce NVH and designed the FMJ suspension to keep "torsion-aire". I have owned a Volare, 2 5th aves, a Mirada and a Granfury, After all I am a Mopar guy, and they were nice cars they just don't drive as well as their predesesors. Used to be a good front end to rob to replace a beam axle on an old truck or car. I mean they drive better than a straight axle over washboards and frost heaves so they are good at that.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
mikes2nd
Posted 2018-11-13 5:54 PM (#573467 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Expert 5K+

Posts: 5006
5000
I don't think you should ever use "Drive well" and Volare, 5th avenue or Mirada in the same post... That's got to be some bad Juju...
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-11-13 11:53 PM (#573480 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
I guess next time you two are on the highway at 80mph and I cruise right by you both one finger on the steering wheel ..... I will wave at you.... but look quick. My J body won't wait for you for long.... lol
Maybe you guys have terrible front ends?
Top of the page Bottom of the page
AceS
Posted 2018-12-02 2:37 PM (#574524 - in reply to #573480)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Veteran

Posts: 281
100100252525
Location: WA/USA
There were a few tech articles written about less than desirable engineering on these suspensions and people latched on to it. The context of their use needs to be considered rather than just straight pooping on them them. For most every driver and driving application nobody would know there were any undesirable characteristics to them. They make excellent low buck swap stock.

My daily for 50k miles was a 76 Volare 318 AOD 833 4 speed car that was decked out with various cop car parts and wheels. It was a fun car and handled great.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
mikes2nd
Posted 2018-12-03 2:43 AM (#574543 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Expert 5K+

Posts: 5006
5000
im not putting anything on a volare near my car...
Top of the page Bottom of the page
57burb
Posted 2018-12-03 9:52 AM (#574551 - in reply to #573299)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert

Posts: 3966
200010005001001001001002525
Location: DFW, TX
I'm trying to understand how this improves a FL car significantly.

Is it just the brakes? Because improved brakes are a bolt-on for the FL cars.

You're not going to get better ride and handling.

You're not getting the benefit of low-mileage cheap junkyard parts, as these things are nearly as old and worn out as FL cars. In fact, the J-bodies were better-built cars, so any donor will probably have more miles than a '50s Mopar!

There is a good chance you will significantly decrease the value of the car to any potential buyer.

It will be a huge amount of work to the frame section aligned, welded properly, create mounts for the bodywork, and get the steering, suspension, and brakes back in a functional state. And then there are a few things you will not be able to address related to a J-body's different wheelbase and track - such as (possible) steering ackerman issues that induce "boat steer", and a wider front track that would necessitate wheels with strange backspacing to be able to keep from rubbing the bodywork. There is also the matter of J-body cars weighing in around 500lbs less than FL cars. Great for gas mileage, but could be a problematic spring rate...

What is the payoff for all that work? A '50s car with '70s suspension and brakes? I'm sure there's a reason for doing this that I'm overlooking.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-12-03 1:16 PM (#574568 - in reply to #574551)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
57burb - 2018-12-03 9:52 AM

I'm trying to understand how this improves a FL car significantly.

Is it just the brakes? Because improved brakes are a bolt-on for the FL cars.

You're not going to get better ride and handling.

You're not getting the benefit of low-mileage cheap junkyard parts, as these things are nearly as old and worn out as FL cars. In fact, the J-bodies were better-built cars, so any donor will probably have more miles than a '50s Mopar!

There is a good chance you will significantly decrease the value of the car to any potential buyer.

It will be a huge amount of work to the frame section aligned, welded properly, create mounts for the bodywork, and get the steering, suspension, and brakes back in a functional state. And then there are a few things you will not be able to address related to a J-body's different wheelbase and track - such as (possible) steering ackerman issues that induce "boat steer", and a wider front track that would necessitate wheels with strange backspacing to be able to keep from rubbing the bodywork. There is also the matter of J-body cars weighing in around 500lbs less than FL cars. Great for gas mileage, but could be a problematic spring rate...

What is the payoff for all that work? A '50s car with '70s suspension and brakes? I'm sure there's a reason for doing this that I'm overlooking.



I guess my biggest question is what you like for disc brakes that are a "bolt on"? I've been told "bolt on" here about certain swaps that are NOT "bolt on"...?

Rebuilding a 58 steering box and sourcing front end parts for a 58 can be done, not as easily or as cheap as a F/M/J though from what I found. Upper bushings- GOOD upper bushings for a 58 front end aren't easy to find or cheap.
Body mounts wouldn't be affected, it's a separate front K member, not a frame clip. And the steering box on a 58 directly in the way of a decent flowing set of headers for a performance application. Lots of reasons to throw about.

I'm the original poster, I had just gone to see a 1958 Plymouth Belvedere setup this way, and the guy selling said he had done half a dozen, and this was "THE way to go". So I was researching.

I decided to go a different route. I am completely redoing my 1958 front end and adding Wilwoods all four corners and bigger sway bar and torsion bars. SuperStock springs out back and an 8 3/4 with a 2,94 SureGrip maybe. That's my intentions as of NOW! lol
But I've changed my mind a couple times already.... so who knows!!!
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-12-03 1:19 PM (#574569 - in reply to #574543)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
mikes2nd - 2018-12-03 2:43 AM

im not putting anything on a volare near my car...


lol
I won't consider brand X stuff. I like certain wheels and tire sizes. I can't stand low power to weight ratio cars. I like certain things. Everybody does.
Nothing wrong with Volare stuff if Volare stuff works.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-12-03 1:25 PM (#574570 - in reply to #574543)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
mikes2nd - 2018-12-03 2:43 AM

im not putting anything on a volare near my car...


Weren't you the one looking at Ford 8.8 rears for their car??
No Ford stuff for this guy!!!!!! Give me Volare parts galore before Ford parts! Sorry!
I'm a DPCD guy!
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Handygun
Posted 2018-12-03 3:42 PM (#574574 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Elite Veteran

Posts: 1117
1000100
Location: STL, MO
Running the la motor or maybe even a poly, block hugger headers I think will fit.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-12-03 10:07 PM (#574582 - in reply to #574574)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
Handygun - 2018-12-03 3:42 PM

Running the la motor or maybe even a poly, block hugger headers I think will fit.


Thanks! I assume you mean with stock front end. I'm hoping they do fit, I have no problem making my own headers if I have to but it would be nice to have something bolt in, even if a little bit of power is lost.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
NM Desoto
Posted 2018-12-03 10:35 PM (#574583 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 145
10025
Years ago, I repowered my '81 Imperial with a 440 when the original fuelie 318 started developing electronic problems. The extra 100 lbs. of the big block had a very negative effect on ride and handling. The transverse torsion bars did not like the extra weight, front end alignment became a nightmare. Straight line performance was fun, cornering was very much like walking on a waterbed.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-12-03 11:43 PM (#574587 - in reply to #574583)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
NM Desoto - 2018-12-03 10:35 PM

Years ago, I repowered my '81 Imperial with a 440 when the original fuelie 318 started developing electronic problems. The extra 100 lbs. of the big block had a very negative effect on ride and handling. The transverse torsion bars did not like the extra weight, front end alignment became a nightmare. Straight line performance was fun, cornering was very much like walking on a waterbed.


I street raced a 1980 Cordoba LS in the 1980s, it was my daily driver. 440 2x4bbl and an 8 3/4 rear end.
I musta had tremendous luck or you guys musta been driving turds?
My car drove awesome, cornered awesome, stopped awesome.



(doobler.jpg)



Attachments
----------------
Attachments doobler.jpg (25KB - 174 downloads)
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Chrycoman
Posted 2018-12-03 11:54 PM (#574588 - in reply to #574583)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert

Posts: 1819
1000500100100100
Location: Vancouver, BC
NM Desoto - 2018-12-03 10:35 PM

Years ago, I repowered my '81 Imperial with a 440 when the original fuelie 318 started developing electronic problems. The extra 100 lbs. of the big block had a very negative effect on ride and handling. The transverse torsion bars did not like the extra weight, front end alignment became a nightmare. Straight line performance was fun, cornering was very much like walking on a waterbed.


Not surprised youi had handling problems with a 1981 Imperial with a 440. Chrysler never engineered the F/M/J bodies to handle anything larger than the LA block 360.

But I am surprised that a 440 is only 100 pounds more than a 318.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-12-04 12:14 AM (#574589 - in reply to #574588)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
Chrycoman - 2018-12-03 11:54 PM

NM Desoto - 2018-12-03 10:35 PM

Years ago, I repowered my '81 Imperial with a 440 when the original fuelie 318 started developing electronic problems. The extra 100 lbs. of the big block had a very negative effect on ride and handling. The transverse torsion bars did not like the extra weight, front end alignment became a nightmare. Straight line performance was fun, cornering was very much like walking on a waterbed.


Not surprised youi had handling problems with a 1981 Imperial with a 440. Chrysler never engineered the F/M/J bodies to handle anything larger than the LA block 360.

But I am surprised that a 440 is only 100 pounds more than a 318.


My black Cordoba with a 360 was 3350 pounds. My same black Cordoba with a 440 was 3550 pounds. 200 pounds heavier.
No idea how people are building cars here but my car drove awesome with a big block.

If 100 pounds in front turns a nice driving factory stock car into a nightmare driving car I am sorry but I assume something was done very wrong!!!
Top of the page Bottom of the page
1960fury
Posted 2018-12-04 6:47 AM (#574598 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert 5K+

Posts: 7385
50002000100100100252525
Location: northern germany
Anyway, putting a Volare clip on a FL is downright stupid, a waste of time and money, needless destruction of a FL and illegal too.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-12-04 10:33 AM (#574611 - in reply to #574598)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
1960fury - 2018-12-04 6:47 AM

Anyway, putting a Volare clip on a FL is downright stupid, a waste of time and money, needless destruction of a FL and illegal too.


LOL!!!
Illegal now too???
Geez!
Top of the page Bottom of the page
58coupe
Posted 2018-12-04 11:13 AM (#574616 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert

Posts: 1739
100050010010025
Location: Alaska
I have a 56 Dodge pickup that a previous owner grafted on a Volare front end and it was running a 340. I am removing it and going back to a stock front end. One of the big problems I see, it adds a lot of weight far forward which changes the balance of the vehicle.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-12-04 11:42 AM (#574618 - in reply to #574616)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
58coupe - 2018-12-04 11:13 AM

I have a 56 Dodge pickup that a previous owner grafted on a Volare front end and it was running a 340. I am removing it and going back to a stock front end. One of the big problems I see, it adds a lot of weight far forward which changes the balance of the vehicle.


Weird question. Is your truck orange???
Top of the page Bottom of the page
1960fury
Posted 2018-12-04 2:21 PM (#574627 - in reply to #574611)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert 5K+

Posts: 7385
50002000100100100252525
Location: northern germany
CrAzYMoPaRGuY - 2018-12-04 10:33 AM

1960fury - 2018-12-04 6:47 AM

Anyway, putting a Volare clip on a FL is downright stupid, a waste of time and money, needless destruction of a FL and illegal too.


LOL!!!
Illegal now too???
Geez!


Yes, except you have it DOT approved, otherwise, in case something happens, you can end up in jail. Happened before. You can't just put a compact/intermediate suspension system on a fullsize car.

Edited by 1960fury 2018-12-04 2:22 PM
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-12-04 4:02 PM (#574638 - in reply to #574627)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
1960fury - 2018-12-04 2:21 PM

CrAzYMoPaRGuY - 2018-12-04 10:33 AM

1960fury - 2018-12-04 6:47 AM

Anyway, putting a Volare clip on a FL is downright stupid, a waste of time and money, needless destruction of a FL and illegal too.


LOL!!!
Illegal now too???
Geez!


Yes, except you have it DOT approved, otherwise, in case something happens, you can end up in jail. Happened before. You can't just put a compact/intermediate suspension system on a fullsize car.


That's crazy sorry. Do you know how many full and mid sized cars have Mustang II front ends on them and are driven on the street regularly??? THOUSANDS AND THOUSANDS.

No idea if you are in Germany or where but if you think all the modified cars in North America are "D.O.T. approved"... or you go to JAIL?
Wow!!!!! lol Crazy
My Wilwoods won't be getting D.O.T. approved, hope I don't spend too long in the slammer.

Not sure if you are joking or.....
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-12-04 4:03 PM (#574639 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
Anybody here have a car that's been modified that's been "D.O.T. approved"..???
Top of the page Bottom of the page
1960fury
Posted 2018-12-04 4:43 PM (#574643 - in reply to #574639)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert 5K+

Posts: 7385
50002000100100100252525
Location: northern germany
CrAzYMoPaRGuY - 2018-12-04 4:03 PM

Anybody here have a car that's been modified that's been "D.O.T. approved"..???


That wasn't meant seriously. You can't have a custom car DOT approved. Again, if you make radical modifications, like putting a suspension system from a compact car on a fullsize car and you cause an accident, you can end up in jail. That happened before.

What is the point of a Volare front clip on a FL car anyway?
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-12-04 4:52 PM (#574649 - in reply to #574643)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
1960fury - 2018-12-04 4:43 PM

CrAzYMoPaRGuY - 2018-12-04 4:03 PM

Anybody here have a car that's been modified that's been "D.O.T. approved"..???


That wasn't meant seriously. You can't have a custom car DOT approved. Again, if you make radical modifications, like putting a suspension system from a compact car on a fullsize car and you cause an accident, you can end up in jail. That happened before.

What is the point of a Volare front clip on a FL car anyway?


I went to see a 1958 Plymouth Belvedere on Kijiji. A "for sale" site. It was for sale locally. The owner was named Vic, the car had a F/M/J swap. He said he had built lots of Forward Look cars, drove lots and lots of different swaps as well as stock front end cars. H said he had done half a dozen with the F/M/J front end and it was THE way to go.
I own and have owned J bodies, I really like the way they drive. Thought I would ask as this guy claimed it was the absolute best way to go.

I'm a listener too though. I am going to try completely new rebuilt 58 front end with discs, and a newer 8 3/4 on SuperStock springs with discs.

I gotta say- in CANADA I'm not sure you go to jail for murder, let alone building a car a certain way. Lots of extremely modified cars running around here. No jail time for sure. And the F/M/J is very close to a 58 Plymouth in size and weight. My Cordoba LS sure isn't a "compact" by any stretch.....
Top of the page Bottom of the page
1960fury
Posted 2018-12-04 5:01 PM (#574650 - in reply to #574649)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert 5K+

Posts: 7385
50002000100100100252525
Location: northern germany
CrAzYMoPaRGuY - 2018-12-04 4:52 PM

1960fury - 2018-12-04 4:43 PM

CrAzYMoPaRGuY - 2018-12-04 4:03 PM

Anybody here have a car that's been modified that's been "D.O.T. approved"..???


That wasn't meant seriously. You can't have a custom car DOT approved. Again, if you make radical modifications, like putting a suspension system from a compact car on a fullsize car and you cause an accident, you can end up in jail. That happened before.

What is the point of a Volare front clip on a FL car anyway?


I went to see a 1958 Plymouth Belvedere on Kijiji. A "for sale" site. It was for sale locally. The owner was named Vic, the car had a F/M/J swap. He said he had built lots of Forward Look cars, drove lots and lots of different swaps as well as stock front end cars. H said he had done half a dozen with the F/M/J front end and it was THE way to go.
I own and have owned J bodies, I really like the way they drive. Thought I would ask as this guy claimed it was the absolute best way to go.

I'm a listener too though. I am going to try completely new rebuilt 58 front end with discs, and a newer 8 3/4 on SuperStock springs with discs.

I gotta say- in CANADA I'm not sure you go to jail for murder, let alone building a car a certain way. Lots of extremely modified cars running around here. No jail time for sure. And the F/M/J is very close to a 58 Plymouth in size and weight. My Cordoba LS sure isn't a "compact" by any stretch.....


Read my initial post about this in this thread. I've driven 100 000+++ of miles with mine, 30+ years on roads with no speed limit. Speed limits do not interest me anyway. I love winding back roads. My 60 drives as if it on rails, curves can't be sharp enough. It outruns my brothers new AMG CLS easily and recently had some fun with a 510hp RS6 Audi.
Keep it stock and upgrade the stock system, sway bars, front>rear weight transfer, etc. Less work, better results and still a FL car and not cobbled together bas***d.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
CrAzYMoPaRGuY
Posted 2018-12-04 6:53 PM (#574655 - in reply to #574650)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip


Veteran

Posts: 154
1002525
Location: Locked in my Canadian garage....
1960fury - 2018-12-04 5:01 PM

CrAzYMoPaRGuY - 2018-12-04 4:52 PM

1960fury - 2018-12-04 4:43 PM

CrAzYMoPaRGuY - 2018-12-04 4:03 PM

Anybody here have a car that's been modified that's been "D.O.T. approved"..???


That wasn't meant seriously. You can't have a custom car DOT approved. Again, if you make radical modifications, like putting a suspension system from a compact car on a fullsize car and you cause an accident, you can end up in jail. That happened before.

What is the point of a Volare front clip on a FL car anyway?


I went to see a 1958 Plymouth Belvedere on Kijiji. A "for sale" site. It was for sale locally. The owner was named Vic, the car had a F/M/J swap. He said he had built lots of Forward Look cars, drove lots and lots of different swaps as well as stock front end cars. H said he had done half a dozen with the F/M/J front end and it was THE way to go.
I own and have owned J bodies, I really like the way they drive. Thought I would ask as this guy claimed it was the absolute best way to go.

I'm a listener too though. I am going to try completely new rebuilt 58 front end with discs, and a newer 8 3/4 on SuperStock springs with discs.

I gotta say- in CANADA I'm not sure you go to jail for murder, let alone building a car a certain way. Lots of extremely modified cars running around here. No jail time for sure. And the F/M/J is very close to a 58 Plymouth in size and weight. My Cordoba LS sure isn't a "compact" by any stretch.....


Read my initial post about this in this thread. I've driven 100 000+++ of miles with mine, 30+ years on roads with no speed limit. Speed limits do not interest me anyway. I love winding back roads. My 60 drives as if it on rails, curves can't be sharp enough. It outruns my brothers new AMG CLS easily and recently had some fun with a 510hp RS6 Audi.
Keep it stock and upgrade the stock system, sway bars, front>rear weight transfer, etc. Less work, better results and still a FL car and not cobbled together bas***d.


I read your initial post. And posts of others. I have LOTS of seat time at high speeds in 57/58 Forward look cars. I drove many back in the day.
Like I said, I'll tweak the stock setup as best I can and see where it takes me. I like the way the cars drive, just wondered why the guy selling the Belvedere locally was adamant the F/M/J swap was the way to go.
I'm already collecting parts, lots of pics to come lol
Top of the page Bottom of the page
58coupe
Posted 2018-12-05 11:15 AM (#574690 - in reply to #568273)
Subject: Re: Front suspension - Volare clip



Expert

Posts: 1739
100050010010025
Location: Alaska
CMG, in answer to your question, my truck is white and it appears that is the original color. I was told it was assembled in Cal. and driven up here with a 340-4 speed and when I got it, no eng. or trans.
Top of the page Bottom of the page
Jump to page : 1 2
Now viewing page 1 [50 messages per page]
Jump to forum :
Search this forum
Printer friendly version
E-mail a link to this thread

* * * This site contains affiliate links for which we may be compensated * * *


(Delete all cookies set by this site)