Front Suspension Replacement
In this segment, the replacement and restoration of the front suspension on the 1969 Alfa gets underway. The suspension system on the Alfa was based on racing designs, and incorporated separate coil springs and shock absorbers -- as opposed to modern suspension systems that employ integrated strut-and-coil-spring assemblies. The complete restoration on the front suspension (figure A) includes the upper strut rods, coil springs, upper and lower ball joints.
The rubber stop at the base of the suspension assembly (figure B) is replaced since the rubber has gotten hard and dried with age.
The outer tie rods and shock absorbers are replaced as well (figure C). By changing out all of the suspension components with new or refurbished parts, the restored Alfa will end up with a satisfyingly tight and precise steering system. Following are some of the major steps in the process.
Steps: - To remove the upper strut rod, remove the nut and bolt assembly at the end of the strut rod (figure D), working it free from any rust and corrosion.
- Next, loosen the bolts connecting the other end of the strut rod where it connects with the wall of the inner fender (figure E).
- To remove the outer tie rod, remove the cotter pin fastener and loosen the nut that holds it in place. You may need to carefully strike the knuckle bolt where the tie rods join together, using a rubber mallet, to separate the two elements.
- Unbolt the sway-bar and pry the link free (figure F) to continue with the restoration.
- The suspension restoration includes replacement of the coil spring, shock absorber, ball joints and tie rods (figure G).
- Restoration Tip: When replacing the coil springs, the lower perch-plate (figure H) was replaced as part of the suspension restoration. Replacement of this support piece made the restoration process easier, since the new part was free of rust and corrosion. Though somewhat worn, the old part was removed, boxed up and retained for possible future use. It's a good idea to catalog and retain old parts from a classic vehicle since replacement parts may eventually become obsolete and hard to obtain. Used parts can sometimes be cleaned up, rebuilt or refurbished as an alternative when replacements are not readily available.
- The next steps in the restoration process involve the upper strut rod and connection of the lower knuckle with the tie rod. Begin by tightening the retaining bolt that holds the upper strut rod in place (figure I).
- Assemble the knuckle-joint (figure J) and connect it to the outer tie rod (figure K).
- Hand tighten the nuts before tightening them with air-powered wrenches (figure L). As you finish tightening the tie-rod assembly you may need to strike the assembly from below to seat the tapered connections where the knuckle meets the tie-rod. Firmly tapping the assembly helps seat the connection get the self-locking nut started as you begin tightening with the wrench.
- These steps are repeated on both sides of the vehicle to complete the front-end suspension restoration.
- Restoration Tip: Removal and replacement of the coil springs, particularly with the engine removed from the vehicle, can be a tricky process. With engine removed, it can be difficult gauge the proper compression and rebound of the springs. For do-it-yourselfers not familiar with the intricacies of installing coil-springs, you may want to let a professional handle this part of the job.
- Restoration Tip: Be sure to use suspension-grade hardware (nuts, bolts, etc.) when replacing suspension components. You may be able to re-use some of the original hardware, but each piece should be carefully examined to determine whether it needs to be replaced.
In the segment that follows, the front disc brakes are replaced.
RESOURCES :
Alfa Romeo Owner's Bible: A Hands-On Guide to Getting the Most from Your Alfa
Model: 0837607078
Author: Pat Braden
Order this book from Amazon.com
Bentley Publishers
Alfa Romeo Spider: The Complete Story
Model: 1861261225
Author: John Tipler
Order this book from Amazon.com
Crowood Press
Original Alfa Romeo Spider (Bay View Original Series)
Model: 0760311625
Author: Chris Rees, James Mann
Order this book from Amazon.com
Motorbooks International (MBI Publishing)
Essential Alfa Romeo Guilia & Giulietta Coupes & Spiders: The Cars and Their Story 1954-95
Model: 1870979591
Author: David Hodges
Order this book from Amazon.com
Motorbooks International (MBI Publishing)
Alfa Romeo: The Spirit of Milan
Model: 0750919582
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Sutton Publishing
Classic Car Restorer's Handbook: Restoration Tips and Techniques for Owners ...
Model: 1557881944
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H.P. Books
Classic Car Restoration Guide: The Complete Illustrated Step-By-Step Manual
Model: 1850108900
Author: Lindsay Porter
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Haynes Publishing
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