Corvette Steering And Suspension
New Technology For Your Vintage Corvette.
This article is not for every vintage corvette owner. Its for those classic car owners that actually like to get out and drive to enjoy their cars.
The 1984 Corvette has drastic suspension improvements over any previous Corvette before it. The biggest technological advance was to the introduction of rack & pinion steering. The old recirculating ball steering box found in every Corvette from 1953 to 1982 was commonly known
for its loose feeling.Even from new these steering systems needed constant attention while driving and as they wore in you often found yourself wondering if you would end up in an oncoming lane of traffic.
As any one that has had an opportunity to drive a post 1982 Corvette can tell you, the difference in handling is that of night and day.So with this in mind why not convert your classic Corvette to rack & pinion steering.
Many classic Corvette owners are concerned with modifying or changing their cars due to the increasing value of these vehicles, however it is possible to take advantage of todays advancements without sacrificing your classic cars factory integrity.
Vette Brake Products has been manufacturing a bolt in kit that allows you to convert your 1963 to 1982 Corvette to power rack & pinion steering.These kits are designed specifically for your Corvette and use all existing mounting locations.This means no modifications to your classic car, no holes to drill, no cutting or welding, just a few bolts to tighten,and then you can place all your original steering components in a storage container for some time in the future when you may decide to change back or sell your car.
VBP’s Rack-Attack rack & pinion bolt-on conversion system C2/C3 Vette's will dramatically improve your handling. You’ll experience improved control, instant response and feel like you’re driving a late model Vette. You’ll never go back to the old technology of the stock recirculating ball system. The quicker competitive steering ratio of 2.5 turn’s lock to lock will reduce your time and effort as it speeds up your steering reaction.
The Rack-Attack is simple to bolt-on using common hand tools and takes about 3 hours install. VBP's kit comes COMPLETE! Everything but the pump is included.
Now that we have upgraded our steering its time to tackle the suspension.VBP has figured this one out as well. In the 60's the Corvette gave us the mono spring in the rear of the car to allow for an independent rear suspension system.This was a vast improvment over the solid axle of the 50,s but the factory systems carry alot of weight that can easily be removed with the use of newly available materials.
VBP has designed a strong yet light weight hybrid composite mono spring.This unique VBP Composite Mono-spring improves ride and handling, saves weight (weighs just 9-lbs vs. stock a 45-lb 9-leaf spring) and lasts virtually forever. Also, the spring will not corrode, de-arch or fatigue like its steel predecessor.
For maximum street performance install VBP's Heavy-duty Rear Camber Strut Rods or Smart Struts. Smart Struts are guaranteed to improve handling and reduce uneven tire wear,hub bearing wear and side loading.
Off set trailing arms allows up to an additional 2" inboard clearance for wider tire and rim combinations. They include stock size polyurethane bushings and come powder coated. For best fit use 17" rims, Remove the rear Anti-Sway Bar and add the Rear Dual Mount Composite Spring Kit.
You can bring 2000's suspension technology to the front of your early model 1963-82 Corvette, as well, with minimal cost and effort.
VBP's unique system replaces outdated coil springs with a specially designed transversely mounted Composite Mono-spring.
This patented system is fully adjustable and uses your existing control arms.Or opt for VBP's completely upgraded system that replaces the heavy factory A-arms with lightweight upper and lower A-arms.
VBP Box Tube design Offset Upper Arms offer improved Castor and camber alignment ranges and are lighter and stronger than stock arms.
*NEW* LIGHT WEIGHT Upper Tubular Offset Arms offer improved castor and camber alignment ranges and they are lighter than the VBP first design Box Tube style arms.
With all these suspension and steering modifications just imagine how well your classic Corvette will handle. Now you can drive your Corvette more than ever,farther than ever,with no concerns over how it will perform or stand up to any road or adverse weather condition. Best of all with bolt on parts you keep your Corvette in its original condition which helps maintain its increasing value.
We all need the opportunity to relax, reduce stress, and forget about all life's little pressures. With no down side how could you possibly say no to the freedom of the road.Remember cars are made to be driven, not trailered, so get out there and live the dream you've had since before you even earned your drivers licence.
