International Lancia Forums

I have removed my the front subframe complete with engine and gearbox on my S2 1300, to do some minor repairs in the engine bay and front floor area. The subframe and engine were rebuilt some years ago and have not been run since. The whole assembly was put together to allow me to move house, now I wish to get the car back on the road as I have had a new garage built. Since reassembly the front of the car seems to sit rather high, now with the subframe out of the body I felt it was good time time to attend to the ride height. The transverse spring was cleaned and refitted, with new suspension bushes all round. The gap from the end of the bump stop to the top wishbone 'pad' is approximately 110 mm, with the engine and gearbox fitted standing on its wheels and blocks either end to keep it level. I have loosened the wishbone bolts and they move freely, I have a tool I made some years ago to pull the end of the spring upwards to remove and refit the hub, which closed the gap, but when removed the gap is as before. Any ideas, or will use settle the height?

Neil

When rebuilding my car I had similar thoughts on the ride height, as the car did sit high when I refitted the subframe assembly. However as the car is now ok so I would check the following.

Firstly, have you got all the glass, panels, doors, trim etc fitted in the car? You would be surprised at the combined weight of these and the difference it can make to the ride height. Also, my car is fitted with S1 alloy panels which I assume will 'slightly' increase the ride height due to the reduction in weight.

Secondly, if the car is jacked up under the frame and simply lowered onto the wheels, it will sit high due to the camber angle and resistance of the tires. If possible, simply roll the car a few meters backwards and forwards along your drive and the camber angle should come good.

Good Luck

Julian

They always sit high after re-assembly, but invariably settle in a few miles/days.
Leaf springs seem to relax at their own rate, no matter how much grease/oil is applied during assembly.
Jus