Boy, that was a mistake...

 I replaced the rear spring since I had already done the front.  Now my car look like it's going down hill, even after adjusting the bolts all the way out.

Hey JimG... is it a heavier spring rate?...seems i recall many moons ago after installing a fiberglass rear spring on the '76 and it did kinda raise up the rear some..however, it didnt stay installed for very long..as the spring started to crack(the laminated layers started to seperate)...besides, a buddy of ours that restored vettes told us that he preferred the metal springs for reliability and for weight.  stingrayjim2007-02-07 22:42:35

Jim...don't give up on the mono spring just yet.  Did you get the 330# spring? If it rides to high give VanSteel a call and explain to them what the problem is. I would think on a 79 SB the 330 would be just right. Be careful with the 10" bolts because they may rub the tire and tear the sidewall.

Dang, Jim...you may have to put some Monster Mudders on that thang!!!

As Stingray Jim says, if it is a higher rated spring than "normal" this will happen. I've said it before, I'll say it again...the "ratings" these aftermarket springs have are all a joke. I don't think I've ever seen one that would test out at the spec it is rated for. They always seem to be WAY stouter than they're supposed to be.
This is true for front or rear springs, 'glass ones included.
I would recommend that anyone that is planning on replacing a spring on their 'Vette go with one that is rated 2-3 times lower than what they think they need. Even if the manufacturer states that it is a "direct replacement"...don't believe it!

It really sux that you have to go thru the hassle of swapping them out, just to find it ain't right. I would go back with the original, and then maybe do a little searching to find something a little(lot) closer to what you were looking for.

The correct 'glass spring in the rear is great. They ride better, and they will actually last longer.(depending on who made it) Then again, if you go thru the original steel spring, and rebuild it with new liners, it will ride much better, too.

SJ..I don't think there's enough room back there to put 10" bolts, without hitting the tires/rims? Or dragging the ground?!

[QUOTE=Silver69]Jim...don't give up on the mono spring just yet.  Did you get the 330# spring? If it rides to high give VanSteel a call and explain to them what the problem is. I would think on a 79 SB the 330 would be just right. Be careful with the 10" bolts because they may rub the tire and tear the sidewall. [/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Adams' Apple]Dang, Jim...you may have to put some Monster Mudders on that thang!!!

As Stingray Jim says, if it is a higher rated spring than "normal" this will happen. I've said it before, I'll say it again...the "ratings" these aftermarket springs have are all a joke. I don't think I've ever seen one that would test out at the spec it is rated for. They always seem to be WAY stouter than they're supposed to be.
This is true for front or rear springs, 'glass ones included.
I would recommend that anyone that is planning on replacing a spring on their 'Vette go with one that is rated 2-3 times lower than what they think they need. Even if the manufacturer states that it is a "direct replacement"...don't believe it!

It really sux that you have to go thru the hassle of swapping them out, just to find it ain't right. I would go back with the original, and then maybe do a little searching to find something a little(lot) closer to what you were looking for.

The correct 'glass spring in the rear is great. They ride better, and they will actually last longer.(depending on who made it) Then again, if you go thru the original steel spring, and rebuild it with new liners, it will ride much better, too.

SJ..I don't think there's enough room back there to put 10" bolts, without hitting the tires/rims? Or dragging the ground?![/QUOTE] JimG2007-02-05 19:25:11

What manufacturer did you get your spring from?  I've read before that the TRW springs tend to push the rear up higher.  I installed a 360# VBP spring and it sat perfect for me.  I was able to drop my rear about an inch, using the bolts that came with the spring.  Maybe trying a different spring would work for you.... I definitely think the composite springs are better than the steel, so good luck finding the right one! 

I have the TRW spring with a rating of 315 lbs and 8" bolts which seems to have a good ride height.

[QUOTE=VTHokie77Vette]What manufacturer did you get your spring from?    [/QUOTE]

 Bought it from Mid America, not sure who made it....

Jim , give  it some time and miles. I put A 330# on Mine .too spongy. so I changed it to a 360#. Get the 10 inch bolts to adjust height better. and it will definately settle down after you drive it awhile.