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j
Hey Guys,
Well, it's about that time again for another spring-related question from me. I'm the third owner of my '72 with little clue as to what previous owners did as far as coils springs are concerned. Is there a way of determining coil springs rates while they are in the car. Visually, I know of no way. All I know is they don't compress a whole lot when I (gingerly) sit on the fender. The steering is extremely sensitive (oversteer?) to the point it's uncomfortable at higher speeds. Is this a trait associated with higher spring rates and not enough weight up front? Any help here would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, guys!
JR - Miramar,FL
Well, it's about that time again for another spring-related question from me. I'm the third owner of my '72 with little clue as to what previous owners did as far as coils springs are concerned. Is there a way of determining coil springs rates while they are in the car. Visually, I know of no way. All I know is they don't compress a whole lot when I (gingerly) sit on the fender. The steering is extremely sensitive (oversteer?) to the point it's uncomfortable at higher speeds. Is this a trait associated with higher spring rates and not enough weight up front? Any help here would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, guys!
JR - Miramar,FL

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Unless you can find a tag on the spring you must use the guess method. You might be able to compare to another car with a known spring rate and guess better.
Stiff spring won't make the steering twitchy. It will make better cornering. There is a difference. You may want to check the adjustment on the power steering valve.
Ken Styer
Stiff spring won't make the steering twitchy. It will make better cornering. There is a difference. You may want to check the adjustment on the power steering valve.
Ken Styer
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d
Check the steering arm too, there are 2 holes in it, I can't remember which is which, swapping holes for a quicker response is sometimes done, I'm thinking if the arm is in the closest hole to the gear box, then it's been moved. It's worth checking.

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j
Hey Dave, the steering arm is in the forward hole,which makes it the furthest away. From everything I've read, it seems to be in the correct location for power steering cars. I'll have to read up on PS systems in order to follow up on Ken's advice. In the meantime, will an old NASCAR remedy, "making an air pressure adjustment" hold me over? Trouble is I don't know whether to up or down....With 255/60-15 BF Goodrich's, I'm running 29psi. Thanks to you both!
JR - Miramar,FL
JR - Miramar,FL

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d
If you're comfortable with the pin location, then I'd suggest you follow up on Ken's advice. He's proven himself many times to be pretty sharp on these cars.

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j
Will do..thanks.
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in Forum: C3 Engines, Driveline and Handling
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