Upgrading the Suspension Finally

[AndysPlit]

After years of pondering how to do this on my 78 Z, I have finally come to the conclusion that I will work on the suspension myself. Cost has been the main issue, so that will obviously not be so much a factor.

I'm planning on replacing my old worn KYB struts with Tokiko HPs and also the stock springs with Turn 6 performance springs. Turn 6 is barely ever mentioned as I believe they haven't made springs for Zs in years. They were handed down to me by a friend who drove a 240. From my understanding they will be slightly stiffer than the stock ones and lower the car by an inch....Nothing too drastic I assume.

I'm going to purchase a set of spring compressors and a decent jack. I don't think the one that came with the car will be as safe or sturdy for this type of job.....Although I own a second one in my Z32.

Anyway, I have three questions:

1) Is there any advice before I proceed? I have a Haynes manual and plan to do further research on the istallation of these componants.

2) I also have a front sway bar (from a 240) that I was thinking about installing while I was under the car. I'm not sure if it'll fit. It should, right?

3) Would this also be a prime opportunity to replace some of the bushings?

Thanks!

[Ptero]

My advice: Spray some sort of PB blaster or WD-40 on the nuts/bolts that require removal. Go back inside, you're done for the day. Wake up the next morning and try to remove your bolts. It'll make for a much easier start to your project.

[240260280z]

http://atlanticz.ca/zclub/techtips/suspension.htm

[ZCurves]

1) Is there any advice before I proceed? I have a Haynes manual and plan to do further research on the istallation of these componants.

Download the FSM and Locate, Rent, Borrow a spring compressor. Search for thread about types of oil used in Strut Tube w/cart. (I used ATF).

2) I also have a front sway bar (from a 240) that I was thinking about installing while I was under the car. I'm not sure if it'll fit. It should, right?

It should fit, BUT you would be better off looking for a sway bar from a 2+2, they are 20mm where as their is nothing to be gained from 280 to 240 sway bar.

3) Would this also be a prime opportunity to replace some of the bushings?

Yes, this is the best time to replace bushings. Go with Urethane and use lots of silly-cone to lube. I used anti-seize+silicone combo - works great!!

You could also consider this time to replace the Bushings on the control arms in the Rear-End. Nasty Job, but since your there...

Be Patient, Be SAFE, Have fun, Take pictures

Thanks!

You're Welcome

Edited June 30, 2011 by ZCurves

[beermanpete]

I'm going to purchase a set of spring compressors and a decent jack. I don't think the one that came with the car will be as safe or sturdy for this type of job.....Although I own a second one in my Z32.

Anyway, I have three questions:

1) Is there any advice before I proceed? I have a Haynes manual and plan to do further research on the istallation of these componants.

2) I also have a front sway bar (from a 240) that I was thinking about installing while I was under the car. I'm not sure if it'll fit. It should, right?

3) Would this also be a prime opportunity to replace some of the bushings?

Thanks!

DO NOT work on the car while it is on the jack.

Get a set of jack stands. Always use them in paris. If you have the scratch get 2 sets and raise the whole car.

The most difficult part to remove is the spindle in the rear. This connects the rear lower control arm to the strut. They like to get stuck due to rust and such. As ZCurves said, use lots of penetrating oil. If you can't get the spindle out you can take the strut and control arm out as an assembly. That is what we did. You can then replace the struts and springs and put it all back. If you replace the bushings you must remove the spindle.

Look for a copy of the factory service manual here:

http://www.xenons30.com/reference.html

It may have better instructions than the 3rd party books.

Be sure to install the bump stops.

Service the bearing at the top of the front strut while it is out.

[Powderkeg]

The Street Racing Suspensions DVD from ZThearpy is really helpful.

Dave Ruiz

[AndysPlit]

Thank you all. I will definately take these suggestions to heart. I love this forum. I'm still all ears.

[Hunter260Z]

Andy

Go ahead and get a camber kit for the front. Are the springs for a 280 or 240, there are different but I could be wrong.

[AndysPlit]

The springs were used in a 73 240. Will they still work in a 280?

[Hunter260Z]

I would say NO.