Suggestions on rear end work...

[Phenom]

I am replacing the rear spring, rear y-pipe and cat convertor at the same time on my '82. Since I am under there and have all that removed, is there something else I should check or replace since its a good time? The car has 48000 miles, in very good condition, there is a rattling in the rear somewhere, when I hit bumps, think it may be the heat sheild,, hoping Ill find it when replacing those parts. Also, any comments on the parts Im using, A composite monospring kit from ecklers, an aluminized y-pipe (yea should have gone stainless) and a "super cat convertor' also from eklers. Thanks for any input...

 

[SwaveDave]

I have the TRW composite spring ; you will like the ride with it. Soaks up bumps good. While you have everything out, id do some painting of the underside and maybe change the differential fluid.

 

[MaineShark]

I was looking at the composite springs a while back, and I seem to recall that they require different shocks than the steel spring. So you might need to replace the shocks at the same time.

I'd also give the bushings a good looking-over, and replace any that aren't looking healthy, while you have everything apart and it's easy to work under there.

Joe

 

[Bob Chadwick]

You might want to replace the shocks and at the same time replace the strut rods or at least the strut rod bushings. The front differentail bushing is supposed to be fairly easy. I also purchased the differential carrier kit that goes over the old bushings and stiffens it up somewhat. The only other eays bushings that came to mind are the spring ends, which I assume came with your spring kit. Otherwise order these up as well.

 

[Jack]

While you're under there ... take a close look at half-shaft Ujoints, drive-shaft Ujoints and rear wheel bearing play. Check your spare & spare carrier for rattle.
JACK:gap

 

[Ala75Vette]

Nice looking car, Phenom! I've got the composite monospring on my 75 (VBP 330 lb), and it does improve the softness of the ride tremendously. I'd rate that as the top upgrade I've done to my car since purchasing it....