Front Suspension Question

hulbyw Insano Dub Head

819 posts · joined Sep 2009 · 21 Aug 2020, 6:22 pm

#1043609

I have a '68 ball joint front suspension that I have had Avis adjusters welded in. I will be lowering the front of the bug a max of 2", likely about 1 to 1 1/2" and am wondering whether I should fit caster shims. I have the shims and longer bolts. Just wondering what others have done when lowering a BJ front beam a relatively small amount and how heavy caster shims are likely to make the steering when parking
Cheers ..........Wayne

hulbyw Insano Dub Head

819 posts · joined Sep 2009 · 3 Sep 2020, 9:39 pm

#1043633

No one lowered a BJ beam?
Another question if I may. If I fit caster shims, do I need to rotate the steering box mount a little so that the steering coupler runs true?
Cheers

bevoracing Officially Full-On Dubber

327 posts · joined Jan 2009 · 6 Sep 2020, 9:27 am

#1043639

Good to have the forum back.....
Castor shims make it sit straighter on the highway but make it heavier on the street, parking etc. Everything is a compromise. I think they're great, particularly with a larger standard steering wheel. Give them a go, can't hurt, if you don't like them then take them back out. Not sure but I reckon you'll get away with not moving the steering box initially, just for the test, but you might have to move it for the long term. You should re-set the wheel alignment if you move the box.
Cheers
Tony

Country Buggy King & Link Pin Overhauls, Type 1 & 2 King Pins, General Machining.
http://forums.aussieveedubbers.com/viewtopic.php?tid=74138
My car is KO813

grumble Son of Jim - Creator of Good

2,672 posts · joined Jun 2008 · 6 Sep 2020, 7:24 pm

#1043642

bevoracing wrote:Good to have the forum back.....
Castor shims make it sit straighter on the highway but make it heavier on the street, parking etc. Everything is a compromise. I think they're great, particularly with a larger standard steering wheel. Give them a go, can't hurt, if you don't like them then take them back out. Not sure but I reckon you'll get away with not moving the steering box initially, just for the test, but you might have to move it for the long term. You should re-set the wheel alignment if you move the box.
Cheers
Tony

You are right Tony castor will make the steering return to straight ahead but too much will give you the shopping trolley wobbles, back in the 1970's we used to crank the castor up on the Valiants to make them steer and handle well. A good wheel alignment is always necessary after alterations.

hulbyw Insano Dub Head

819 posts · joined Sep 2009 · 9 Sep 2020, 10:55 am

#1043646

Thanks guys. Appreciated.
Cheers