suspension ???'s
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Junior User
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From: fallbrook ca
suspension ???'s
Hello guys' ... so I have an 89' that just died... I purchased a 90' and I want to have the same "lift" on the 90... The pic shows the 1" spacer under the front spring in the 89'. My mechanical knowledge is limited sooo???? does (what I perceive) to be a simple 1" spacer require any other mods??? and is it something I can attempt myself?? Any and all comments would be appreciated
Fleet Owner
Joined: Aug 2010
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From: Reynoldsburg, Ohio
Depending on the condition of the existing '90 front coils simply adding the spacer would be "relatively easy". It would involve raising the chassis high enough for the I-Beams to droop, remove a clip holding the spring in place then the spring itself.
The problems arise when trying to replace the spring after the spacer is in place---you may have to compress the spring enough for it to fit back into its upper mount or perch. Not overly complicated or fraught with deadly potential but also not for the inexperienced without supervision or help. A good selection of frame/spring tools would be very helpful.
What's the purpose or need for the lift?
The problems arise when trying to replace the spring after the spacer is in place---you may have to compress the spring enough for it to fit back into its upper mount or perch. Not overly complicated or fraught with deadly potential but also not for the inexperienced without supervision or help. A good selection of frame/spring tools would be very helpful.
What's the purpose or need for the lift?
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Joined: May 2011
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From: the old home place
Depending on the condition of the existing '90 front coils simply adding the spacer would be "relatively easy". It would involve raising the chassis high enough for the I-Beams to droop, remove a clip holding the spring in place then the spring itself.
The problems arise when trying to replace the spring after the spacer is in place---you may have to compress the spring enough for it to fit back into its upper mount or perch. Not overly complicated or fraught with deadly potential but also not for the inexperienced without supervision or help. A good selection of frame/spring tools would be very helpful.
What's the purpose or need for the lift?
The problems arise when trying to replace the spring after the spacer is in place---you may have to compress the spring enough for it to fit back into its upper mount or perch. Not overly complicated or fraught with deadly potential but also not for the inexperienced without supervision or help. A good selection of frame/spring tools would be very helpful.
What's the purpose or need for the lift?
Autozone/Advance etc. will loan you a spring compressor, but be careful with it.
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Junior User
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From: fallbrook ca
the purpose is purely aesthetics. inal van came w/nice rims and larger tires and I relly think it has the perfect "look". Thanks for the tip on the tool loan. another question I have ... are thesen parts super common or should I transfer?? Also if I transfer, the R side has some power steering fluid on it, will this harm lifespan??
Fleet Owner
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 21,255
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From: Reynoldsburg, Ohio
Coil spring spacers should be fairly common, no real need to save or transfer them---they might be close to end of life anyway. I'm guessing you'll be scrapping the dead van but even so I'd just buy new---start out with known good parts.
Brake fluid on the springs themselves won't hurt anything----if its on the spacer then it only reinforces my idea to just buy new.
Adding the spacers to otherwise stock springs MIGHT require the simple spring compressor tools known as external type:
If you can borrow a set it wouldn't hurt having them around just in case.
Here's a decent video even though its not 100% applicable to your van, close enough to give an overall view of things anyway:
HTH
Brake fluid on the springs themselves won't hurt anything----if its on the spacer then it only reinforces my idea to just buy new.
Adding the spacers to otherwise stock springs MIGHT require the simple spring compressor tools known as external type:
If you can borrow a set it wouldn't hurt having them around just in case.
Here's a decent video even though its not 100% applicable to your van, close enough to give an overall view of things anyway:
HTH
Fleet Owner
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 21,255
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From: Reynoldsburg, Ohio
Added the recommended video in my previous reply---not sure how I missed the link earlier.
For the spacers I'd recommend someone like Prothane or Energy Suspension. They might not have your specific application right at hand so you'll want to know your spring's OD and the size of the wire used.
Jargon-wise for the spacers you just need to specify whatever height need--they might come in red or black but that's an easy choice.
For coil springs I'd check into Moog---just bought a pair for my '00 E250 for right at $93 shipped from Amazon. Can't bet that deal or price!
For the spacers I'd recommend someone like Prothane or Energy Suspension. They might not have your specific application right at hand so you'll want to know your spring's OD and the size of the wire used.
Jargon-wise for the spacers you just need to specify whatever height need--they might come in red or black but that's an easy choice.
For coil springs I'd check into Moog---just bought a pair for my '00 E250 for right at $93 shipped from Amazon. Can't bet that deal or price!
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Junior User
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From: fallbrook ca
Thanks again JWA!!! you mention springs as in replace??? how often or what are benifits??? seems like a good time to replace the shocks as well
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Brett Foote
Fleet Owner
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From: Reynoldsburg, Ohio
Given your year I'd say those front coils are probably weak, at least as compared to new. Not sure if there's a definite mileage or time suggested for replacing them---use would have a huge effect on how quickly they become fatigued.
The benefit is restoring the original load handling and braking behavior not to mention a more solid feeling front end. If the sway bar's bushings are new or renewed you'd notice a huge improvement in just about every aspect of driving.
Shocks I use nothing but Bilstein but they're pricey, some just don't want to spend that much on "just shocks". For the effect they have on handling and the fact its not like buying fuel they're a great investment IMHO.
They're just about twice the price of the so-called premium traditional brands but Bilstein are much much better not to mention easier to remove when its time, about 50K miles depending on your use. With a lifetime guarantee just how much more or less expensive are they really? Long term thinkers know---short timers would use anything that fits as long as its cheap too.
The benefit is restoring the original load handling and braking behavior not to mention a more solid feeling front end. If the sway bar's bushings are new or renewed you'd notice a huge improvement in just about every aspect of driving.
Shocks I use nothing but Bilstein but they're pricey, some just don't want to spend that much on "just shocks". For the effect they have on handling and the fact its not like buying fuel they're a great investment IMHO.
They're just about twice the price of the so-called premium traditional brands but Bilstein are much much better not to mention easier to remove when its time, about 50K miles depending on your use. With a lifetime guarantee just how much more or less expensive are they really? Long term thinkers know---short timers would use anything that fits as long as its cheap too.
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Junior User
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From: fallbrook ca
Well the vehicle itself is a time capsule... the paint on the outside (orig.) is as clean as the inside. That being said I have read the threads about the front end handling and the 89' has one of those lateral shocks that everyone suggests...But! the 90' rides like a dream straight down the road. Like you I opt for quality but in my later found wisdom I often hear the voices sayin " if it ain't broke,,,don' fix it"
Fleet Owner
Joined: Aug 2010
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From: Reynoldsburg, Ohio
If the lateral shock you refer to is attached to the drag link that's the steering stabilizer----some find it very useful or adds to the driving experience. Monroe makes a less-expensive replacement, available almost anywhere auto parts are sold.
And if you're happy with things as they are, the van meets your needs, wants and expectations definitely leave well enough alone.
And if you're happy with things as they are, the van meets your needs, wants and expectations definitely leave well enough alone.
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