CHECK YOUR SUSPENSION hardware

Monster · #1 (**permalink**) 06-17-2003, 11:30 PM

I am in the middle of transplanting my toploader for a Tremec and the car has all 4 wheels up in the air. Well, my friend Mr.Potatohead (post was on Cobra Talk) had his Cobra totaled and the appearant cause is a bolt came out of the upper A-Arm. So I figure hey the car is up I might as well check my bolts.........of the 14 botls that hold my upper and lower suspension in place 6 were up to a quarter turn loose and one had backed out half way. It's a good idea to check your suspension bolts annually (which I usually do). And use lock-tite which I also do but it is no guarantee that the bolts can't come loose.

stay safe,
Mike Monster

427 S/O · #2 (**permalink**) 06-18-2003, 04:50 AM

I may be wrong but, It seems that before the A-arm bolt let loose, there would have been obvious handling problems, even in a straight line?. I check my undercarriage every time I change oil (1500 mi).

Robert T. Faust · #3 (**permalink**) 06-18-2003, 09:20 AM

Monster,
Is there a difference in length between the toploader and the Tremec? Or is this a simple "wax on - wax off" thing? What type of modifications are you having to do. I'm asking as I too am running a toploader. Never really gave their excessive weight much thought until after the 4 or 5th time of pulling it out. Dam, almost as heavy as the whole car! Anyway, I'd like to look into changing mine. It's behind a 428CJ, so I've been told it would be an expensive unit, as I would need a heavy duty one???? And what about the linkage position, is it that much further back?
Thanks,
Bob Faust
Redwood City,CA

rdorman · #4 (**permalink**) 06-18-2003, 09:42 AM

Folks, any bolt that is important (how many are not?), should have a self locking nut, be safety wired or used with locktight. If you have suspension bolts that do not have one of the three, change it.

For high stress areas such as suspension pieces, forget SAE stuff. Get AN/MAS bolts, nuts and washers. Your local airport parts dealer can be your best friend with this one.

When using locktight, the bolt and nut must be very clean. Locktight is my last choice.

Forget lock washers. But do always put a washer under any nut.

Rick