Suspension

[rjkoop]

After fixing up the interior, engine and brakes I'm now going to look at the suspension. Generally things look good but a lot of the bushings look worn or cracked. I prefer not to do a full rebuild on all the suspension but rather get it working safely for spring. I'm thinking I'll replace any worn/broken rubber components and check the state of the suspension bolts and ball joints. This guide looked really good for checking things out.

http://www.mirafiori.com/124susp/

Should I go ahead and just order all bushings and replace any suspension bolts at the same time? I'm worried that every bolt I remove to replace a bushing will just break anyways.

I'm going to take a few pictures today.

[toplessexpat]

Sounds like a sensible plan. I did mine over the winter, replaced all bushings and bolts (just to be safe). It's not so bad!

[rjkoop]

Sounds like a sensible plan. I did mine over the winter, replaced all bushings and bolts (just to be safe). It's not so bad!

Do you have to redo the alignment afterwards? Also are there certain bolts that you have to support the suspension before you remove them?

[focodave]

Yes, it is very likely you will need the front end re-aligned after you replace the components you mentioned.
Not guaranteed to need re-aligned, but highly likely.

[djape1977]

don't bother changing the bushings that are cracked on the outside. take a look to see if the bolt going through is in the center of the hole the bush sits in. if it's in the centre, leave it alone. if it's off centre, the bushing needs to be replaced

[4uall]

I think I have all new bushings set at home (currently in Cornwall) will check tomorrow

[rjkoop]

I think I have all new bushings set at home (currently in Cornwall) will check tomorrow

Jay,
Thanks. That would save me the time waiting for the parts. I'm going to inspect the bushings/bolts carefully. I'm hoping to leave the suspension rebuild until next winter but want to make sure things are safe for this season. Rebuilding front calipers now. They are much easier than the rears for sure.

You don't by any chance have any of these?

http://www.autoricambi.us/product/BR0-0 ... ---1980on/

The rear brakes didn't have these when I took them apart.

Richard

[4uall]

Checked my inventory

Have all this new stuff (whatever you think is fair)








Needed new ones myself, threw out old ones




I also have a new complete A arm set with bushings already installed if interested

[wizard124]

I re did my 80 last year. Not difficult and i had never done an entire front end before. It came apart easily, no stripped or broken hardware. Every piece of rubber was cracked with a known bad ball joint. I replaced all ball joints, bushings, sway bar end bushings, brake lines, found a worn wheel bearing, etc. Yes, you will need afront end alignment afterwards.

The driving experience is wonderful! I say do it all rather than piece it bit by bit.

[rjkoop]

Checked my inventory

Have all this new stuff (whatever you think is fair)








Needed new ones myself, threw out old ones




I also have a new complete A arm set with bushings already installed if interested

Wow Jay... You're my local Fiat Spider parts outlet! Perfect. I'm going to ensure the brakes are good 1st and then I'll examine the suspension closely and let you know what I need. I'll probably take the entire set of bushings. My A arms look fine but who knows until I really get in there. Also once I get the wheels back on I'll check the ball joints. Thanks!