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improving handling

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ClockworkMonkey Seriously Crusin Dubber

199 posts · joined Oct 2009 ·

#922517
Just wondering what you guys suggest in the way of handling improvements? The only thing I've had done to the car is have it lowered a little. The front just had an adjuster welded into it I think and I had the front shocks replaced.

It's bumpy but bearable and turns better than it used to but it seems a little twitchy. I know I need a thicker torsion bar on it, just wondering what else would help.

Does narrowing the beam help?

HappyDaze Superannuated

2,887 posts · joined Jun 2009 ·

#922528
You haven't given much away about your car. What is it? A set of good tyres can do wonders.....what are yours? More info. needed.
I'd rather wear a Beetle out by racing it than by polishing it!

vwo60 Veteran Volks Folk

2,036 posts · joined Feb 2007 ·

#922531
The last thing a narrowed beam does is improve the handling, any reduction it track is detremental to the handling of your car. the best thing you can do to start is have a four wheel alignment, this can be the starting point for any other improvments that you make. as happydaze said you need to provide more imformation about your car.

sander288 "Bolt-on Master"

1,404 posts · joined Aug 2008 ·

#922562
If you need a wheel alignment in Brisbane look for Accurate Suspension on the southside
BMW R65 LS
1967 1300 Deluxe
Swing-axles FTW ❗

Joel Now containing 100\% E-Wang

9,368 posts · joined Feb 2006 ·

#922565
How low is a little?
the twitchyness may just be a bit of bump steer depending how low you went.

hellbugged 48's and straight cuts

5,080 posts · joined Apr 2003 ·

#922571
Did you install castor shimms under the newly lowered beam?

ClockworkMonkey Seriously Crusin Dubber

199 posts · joined Oct 2009 ·

#922850
Castor shims? Haha got no idea so I don't think so. I have a 69 type1 1500sp. It's got empi 5 spokes wrapped in nangkang rubber. I couldn't tell you how much it's lowered by sorry guys (it does has have some rake but it's barely noticeable). The back wheels have a slightly lager profile than the front ( I think 65 rear and 55 front) it's had a wheel alignment and balance when it was fitted maybe 6 months ago .

Would drop spindles help maybe?

psimitar Son of Jim - Creator of Good

2,506 posts · joined Jan 2009 ·

#922891
how mechanically minded are you? if good with mechanical stuff then reading that aircooled thread will fill you in on how to make a beetle handle well.

If not mechanically minded then be careful with what you do as making an incorrect change can make the car less controllable.

As the aircooled thread states 'a nose stance is bad for handling. The front needs to be slightly higher than the front. This helps with weight transfer under braking. As the weight is in the back of a Beetle you want to keep the weight there for better braking effect.
madness is in the eye of the beholder 👍

modulus Veteran Volks Folk

2,009 posts · joined Jul 2003 ·

#922908
psimitar wrote:The front needs to be slightly higher than the front. .
Also note left side of car needs to be longer than itself. Install a z-bar on steering wheel. Car should be castorated. Hope this clarifies.
Peter Hill
1975 Type 2 Double Cab
modulus.com.au

HappyDaze Superannuated

2,887 posts · joined Jun 2009 ·

#922931
Using castor oil, instead of grease, in the front end always helps. Also negative camber.......Matt Berry keeps some in stock.
I'd rather wear a Beetle out by racing it than by polishing it!

psimitar Son of Jim - Creator of Good

2,506 posts · joined Jan 2009 ·

#923117
modulus wrote:
psimitar wrote:The front needs to be slightly higher than the front. .
Also note left side of car needs to be longer than itself. Install a z-bar on steering wheel. Car should be castorated. Hope this clarifies.
😂😂😂 oh dear are my anti-depressants affecting my brain.
to correct myself, front needs to be slightly higher than the rear 🙂
madness is in the eye of the beholder 👍

ClockworkMonkey Seriously Crusin Dubber

199 posts · joined Oct 2009 ·

#923291
Yeah I'm not that mechanical :-) i read the thread and it all makes sense but I'm sure it's harder than it sounds. Might have to pay a little visit to the workshop me thinks. Thanks for all the info peoples!