Front shock install problem
 

What is everyone doing about putting "big body" shocks on Camaro/Nova A-arms, especially since aftermarket control arms are not allowed on traditional cars in SS?
Case in point,, Q-A1 adjustable shocks won't fit up through the A-arm (you can only grind so much) and then try to collapse the spring (spring compressor can't occupy the same space) to complete the install. This is providing some very frustrating moments and I know there are many 67-69 Camaro SS cars out there with single and double adjustable shocks out there. What are we missing here? Thanks for any info.
Danny Durham

Re: Front shock install problem
 

I had QA1 shocks on my car for a while. I was able to do some grinding to get them to slide in from the bottom after the spring was installed. The Santhuff shocks needed a bigger hole so I pulled the lower a arms off and used the drill press and a large hole saw to open the bottom up as large as the spring would allow. Then I welded some new tabs which moved the bottom of the shock more toward the spindle. The QA 1 shocks were better than the Koni shocks but still would not control the bounce. The Santhuffs were expensive but calmed the car right down.

Re: Front shock install problem
 

AFCO sells a ring you weld on the control arm after opening up the shock hole. I did this to run their BNC's.

Re: Front shock install problem
 

I removed the front spring, installed the top threaded rod of the shock through the top hole, put the washer and bolt on , not to tight. Then slid the spring back into place and jacked up the lower control arm. This was the only way I could get it in.

Re: Front shock install problem
 

Thanks all, for the info,, especially about your own personal experiences. I'm thinking for now, the car in question will go with the smaller bodied Konis and will rethink the gameplan after the season is over.
Danny Durham

Re: Front shock install problem
 

We bought AFCO double adjustable shocks for the front of our car and a ring came with the shocks as part of the shock kit. We had to mill out our lower control arm so the shock can pass through the bottom of the control arm properly. Then we welded the ring provided by AFCO to the bottom of the control arm. Not that bad of a job but necessary if you use any of the larger diameter racing shocks.

Re: Front shock install problem
 

With so many folks drilling, grinding and welding 40+ year old front suspension parts - all legally - it makes you wonder why NHRA won't let us run aftermarket control arms in the name of track safety.

Or does that just make too much sence?

Danny: My motor flatlined at 5000 with a solid roller cam good to 6500. Found out the heads shipped with hydraulic springs... Working on that now.

Ran 13.12@103 with much bad juju in the valve train...

Dale

Re: Front shock install problem
 

Mike or Danny-----tell me what Koni you are using ????

Re: Front shock install problem
 

I'll let you know once they get here,,, my son ordered these shocks for his car and they should arrive in a day or two. I'm in suspense myself!
Danny Durham

Re: Front shock install problem
 

SUSPENSION, Front
Must retain complete stock front suspension system as produced
by manufacturer for body used, aftermarket tie rods with Heim
joints permitted. Lift kits/travel limiters prohibited. Sway bar
optional. See General Regulations 3:4.

Is there something I am missing here?