Been a awhile since I posted anything, been busy with a home remodel eating away much of my time (no complaints though). However the past three days I made some time and thrashed away on the ol‘ mav. I have to tell you, I AM BEAT!!! Been stacking parts for a good while in anticipation of getting the maintenance / wear items refreshed and up to date. Here’s the run down, u-joints front and rear, all new wheel cylinders, all new brake hoses, complete front suspension rebuild (all Scott Drake/Moog parts), KYB Gas Adjust shocks front and back, idler arm and inner and the outer tie rod ends. Had a few little hiccups, front passenger brake hose was a devil to get off. Broke a needle in one of the u-joints, went in cockeyed, must of lodged in there crocked. Luckily I found one in stock at the local parts house. The rear brake hose had the wrong size ports in the brass fitting (too large), I solved the problem by using a reducer sleeve in each port. I’ll take her down to the alignment shop in the next few days and get her all straightened up. That and I need to bleed the brakes again. Still has some air in the lines after a few rounds, I was just to exhausted and had to call it a night. My only complaint is the springs always hair me out a bit. I’ve done several over the years and you would think you would get used to it. Not me, always makes me a tad nervous! There has got to be a better safer way! Cheers!
@ 71Gold, I've used a few types over the years. Strut compressors (double screw drive outer), inner single screw drive with double hooks and this time inner screw with the spoon.
I can already tell it's much better, didn't sound like a truck last night! After the alignment I'll report back in. The other interesting thing, for some strange reason the emergency brake starting working again (real head scratcher LOL!).
You replaced all the wheel cylinders? You were probably running with little or no rear brakes before. Replacing the wheel cylinders may be why your E brake now works. Just a thought ..
Here's a couple pics, I know how everybody loves the pics (including me!) Got the alignment done. The ride is much better and doesn't sound like a truck anymore. For a near stock 40+ year old design, it's not half bad. I'd say the biggest improvement is in the brakes, with all new hoses, wheel cylinders and adjustments, we have pedal! They actually work pretty well, surprisingly so! The old shocks.
Quick question, my car in 1986 was sent to a shop and had all the suspension replaced, and then parked. I bought the car in 2009, will it be good for driving right now? It rides great! I just dont want to take ANY chances.
Doing the math, the rubber would be 28 years old, I believe it would be time to freshing things up! That said, most of the parts on mine had not been replaced as near as I can tell (except for the strut rod bushings and lower ball joints). I was still driving my car around, sounded and felt like a light truck but still fun as all get out! May sound kind of strange but I actually missed some of the groans and rattles today, I guess I got used to the way it felt and sounded LOL! If you have any reservations, take it to your local mechanic and have them give it a once over. Around here (San Diego) they charge one hour labor rate for the inspection. They would tell you if anything is not safe.
