Restoring a Classic Suspension

In the last article (Keeping You In Suspension) we discussed how to improve the deteriorating handling characteristics of an aging car. Let's start out by summing up what the repairs and restoration may involve.


As the car is probably more than 20 years old, and well used, just about all of the suspension items that can wear out probably have worn out. This will entail replacing all of the bushings, ball joints, tie rods, springs, and shock absorbers along with any other wear item that you may find in the process. The handling can also be improved with the addition of sway bars, if the car never had them, or by upgrading the bars that the car already has.


Count on replacing all of these items at the same time. This will make your life easier in that the various components will not have to be disassembled numerous times. In many cases, the entire suspension can be removed as a unit, rather than as individual parts. This will allow many of the components to be rebuilt and restored on a workbench instead of underneath the car.

Spring Compressor
Now let's get down to the nitty-gritty details of replacing those greasy parts and pieces. There are a few special tools that you will need to have. The most important is a spring compressor. This will allow you to compress the springs of the car so that they can be removed without hurting yourself. A good set can be purchased for about $50. There are a few different kinds available, so make sure you know what you need before you buy them.


Various types of press tools may also be needed depending on the style of bushings and ball joints your car has. Buy a manual specific to your car to make sure.