Suspension and brakes

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Vman
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Suspension and brakes

Post by Vman »

Hi looking for some help on suspension and brakes
What are spec of springs and shocks for 1965 corsa am trying to source equivalent parts in UK.
As for brakes has anyone fitted a power boost on? If so what do I need to be looking for spec wise. Haven't got funds spare to warrant disc conversation at mo and just want to improve brakes.

Thanks Vini

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terribleted
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Re: Suspension and brakes

Post by terribleted »

Corvair brakes are pretty adequate in stock form. I have added front disc kits before. They add a little help as they do not fade as much when heavily used. Unless the driver is physically disabled a power boost is really not needed. It seems I have seen where someone in the past where someone has added power somehow but I do not recall how they did it and of course do no know how well it worked.
Corvair guy since 1982. I have personally restored at least 20 Vairs, many of them restored ground up.
Currently working full time repairing Corvairs and restoring old cars.
https://www.facebook.com/tedsautorestoration/

Located in Snellville, Georgia
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bbodie52
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Re: Suspension and brakes

Post by bbodie52 »

:think: You may find this webpage and subsections to be informative...

1965 and later Corvair drum brakes were a significant improvement over earlier models. Short of upgrading to disc brakes, your best bet is usually optimizing the condition of the stock late model drum brakes, possibly upgrading the single master cylinder in the 1965-66 cars to a safer dual master cylinder, and then getting the most out of your suspension and brakes with state of the art modern tires on 14" or larger wheels.

Welcome to the Corvair Autocross Page
by Bryan Blackwell

:link: http://autoxer.skiblack.com/index.html

Sizing Corvair Wheels and Tires

:link: http://autoxer.skiblack.com/tires.html

Corvair Brakes

:link: http://autoxer.skiblack.com/brakes.html


Performance Corvairs: How to Hotrod the Corvair Engine and Chassis

UK :link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Performance-Co ... d+corvairs

:link: https://www.amazon.com/Performance-Corv ... od+corvair

Image

Some of the 1965 suspension specifications — including the front and rear spring specifications — can be found in the attached 1965-Chevrolet-Corvair - GM Heritage Center Specs, beginning on page 27.
Image
Identifying Springs?
:link: http://corvaircenter.com/phorum/read.ph ... 767,542827

Here is another coil spring source that can provide Corvair springs, but they are also located in the USA...

Image
I suspect this source could build Corvair springs that would be properly calibrated to produce desired support and body height. They would be familiar with spring design, so that correct materials and other parameters could be chosen to result in a safe design that would produce needed support, fitment, and ride height. Just click on "Request a Quote" and dial in the information about your car, including desired ride height adjustments and lowering...
Antique / Hot Rod Coil Springs

These symbols of yesterday can be found getting a new life for the road in garages all across the world. Although most are being restored to their original condition, many are after a specific look, such as the gasser look of the race track or the slow and low easy rider of Main Street. Whatever your goal, Coil Spring Specialties has the expertise to set your project vehicle at your desired height. And don't over look weight changes. These changes can significantly change the load dynamics and trim height of your vehicle. So if you gain or lose a few pounds due to engine swaps or chassis and body modifications, we can compensate for these changes with a new pair of springs.

Whatever the make or model, from classic collectibles to muscle cars, show-stopping originals to clones, we have supplied auto enthusiasts with coil springs, all 100% calibrated to fulfill their suspension needs.

We build each set of springs to your vehicle's specifications. We will need YEAR, MAKE, MODEL, ENGINE SIZE, TRANSMISSION TYPE, and A/C to put into account for each car we engineer for, as all these options play into the manufacturing of your springs
Image

:link: http://www.coilsprings.com/classic.aspx

Call (785) 437-2025



The link below will provide you with a list of useful websites that are Corvair-related. This link will lead you to an extensive technical library that will allow you to download shop manuals and other technical references in Adobe Reader format at no cost. You will also find a list of essential Corvair parts suppliers. Clark's Corvair Parts is the biggest and oldest Corvair supplier in the world. You will find a link that can provide you with a series of videos that amount to a tour of the Clark's Corvair Parts facilities. I think you will be amazed at the quality of the reproduction components they offer — particularly the interior carpeting and re-upholstery items. Parts suppliers such as this truly make our Corvair hobby possible. I know that the cost of parts skyrockets in the UK because of taxes and shipping costs, but unfortunately owning a classic American car in Europe has very limited parts and accessory alternatives. :sad5:

Common and Useful Corvair Websites

:link: viewtopic.php?f=225&t=6007


It looks like you are starting out with a nearly perfect example of a Corsa...
UK Corsa.jpg
Image
Brad Bodie
Lake Chatuge, North Carolina
Image 1966 Corvair Corsa Convertible
66vairguy
Posts: 4529
Joined: Tue Dec 21, 2010 3:44 pm

Re: Suspension and brakes

Post by 66vairguy »

Vini - the issue of poor brake action has been covered on the corvaircenter forum many times. The 66 drum brakes were the same size as used on GM mid sized cars, so they are adequate for anything short of racing. The most common complaint is excessive pedal pressure caused by two things. The new brake shoe lining material is harder requiring greater pedal pressure. The brake shoe to drum arc is often a poor match causing minimal contact area. Some of the newer shoes are deliberately oversized to compensate for worn drums. I got a set that would NOT even fit inside original (no wear) brake drums.

I eventually found a brake shop that imports a shoe lining from Germany and they arc the shoes to fit the drums (which were turned so they are true). After that my brakes worked well, although manual brakes will always require more pedal pressure than boosted. I like the direct unboosted feel and can easily stop the car.

Regarding shocks. Folks find shocks to fit, if not correct. Koni makes shocks that fit the 66 Corvair, but they are expensive. Clark's Corvair contracted exclusively with Gabriel to have the Corvair 65-69 shocks reproduced. Gabriel WILL NOT sell them to anyone else per contract. The Gabriel Ryders tend to be firm. I prefer the Gabriel adjustable Striders set to FIRM in the rear and SOFT up front. Good ride and stable handling and a good second to the Koni's.

AFAIK all springs are now special order. The Corvair used several different spring rates depending on options and body style. If the front springs are original then you won't need to replace them, but note many cut a coil to lower the front to compensate for the sagging rear springs (always bad if original). I just replace the rear springs and that brings the car back to level. If you want to go racing then the HD springs lower the car about an inch and firm up the ride.

Clark's Corvair sells springs. If you get the factory spring part number for your car you can have them made up by Coil Spring Specialties - http://www.coilsprings.com/
User avatar
Vman
Corvair of the Year
Corvair of the Year
Posts: 23
Joined: Wed Mar 15, 2017 4:02 pm

Re: Suspension and brakes

Post by Vman »

bbodie52 wrote::think: You may find this webpage and subsections to be informative...

1965 and later Corvair drum brakes were a significant improvement over earlier models. Short of upgrading to disc brakes, your best bet is usually optimizing the condition of the stock late model drum brakes, possibly upgrading the single master cylinder in the 1965-66 cars to a safer dual master cylinder, and then getting the most out of your suspension and brakes with state of the art modern tires on 14" or larger wheels.

Welcome to the Corvair Autocross Page
by Bryan Blackwell

:link: http://autoxer.skiblack.com/index.html

Sizing Corvair Wheels and Tires

:link: http://autoxer.skiblack.com/tires.html

Corvair Brakes

:link: http://autoxer.skiblack.com/brakes.html


Performance Corvairs: How to Hotrod the Corvair Engine and Chassis

UK :link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Performance-Co ... d+corvairs

:link: https://www.amazon.com/Performance-Corv ... od+corvair

Image

Some of the 1965 suspension specifications — including the front and rear spring specifications — can be found in the attached 1965-Chevrolet-Corvair - GM Heritage Center Specs, beginning on page 27.
1965 Chevrolet Corvair GM Heritage Center Specs.pdf
Image
Identifying Springs?
:link: http://corvaircenter.com/phorum/read.ph ... 767,542827

Here is another coil spring source that can provide Corvair springs, but they are also located in the USA...

Image
I suspect this source could build Corvair springs that would be properly calibrated to produce desired support and body height. They would be familiar with spring design, so that correct materials and other parameters could be chosen to result in a safe design that would produce needed support, fitment, and ride height. Just click on "Request a Quote" and dial in the information about your car, including desired ride height adjustments and lowering...
Antique / Hot Rod Coil Springs

These symbols of yesterday can be found getting a new life for the road in garages all across the world. Although most are being restored to their original condition, many are after a specific look, such as the gasser look of the race track or the slow and low easy rider of Main Street. Whatever your goal, Coil Spring Specialties has the expertise to set your project vehicle at your desired height. And don't over look weight changes. These changes can significantly change the load dynamics and trim height of your vehicle. So if you gain or lose a few pounds due to engine swaps or chassis and body modifications, we can compensate for these changes with a new pair of springs.

Whatever the make or model, from classic collectibles to muscle cars, show-stopping originals to clones, we have supplied auto enthusiasts with coil springs, all 100% calibrated to fulfill their suspension needs.

We build each set of springs to your vehicle's specifications. We will need YEAR, MAKE, MODEL, ENGINE SIZE, TRANSMISSION TYPE, and A/C to put into account for each car we engineer for, as all these options play into the manufacturing of your springs
Image

:link: http://www.coilsprings.com/classic.aspx

Call (785) 437-2025



The link below will provide you with a list of useful websites that are Corvair-related. This link will lead you to an extensive technical library that will allow you to download shop manuals and other technical references in Adobe Reader format at no cost. You will also find a list of essential Corvair parts suppliers. Clark's Corvair Parts is the biggest and oldest Corvair supplier in the world. You will find a link that can provide you with a series of videos that amount to a tour of the Clark's Corvair Parts facilities. I think you will be amazed at the quality of the reproduction components they offer — particularly the interior carpeting and re-upholstery items. Parts suppliers such as this truly make our Corvair hobby possible. I know that the cost of parts skyrockets in the UK because of taxes and shipping costs, but unfortunately owning a classic American car in Europe has very limited parts and accessory alternatives. :sad5:

Common and Useful Corvair Websites

:link: viewtopic.php?f=225&t=6007


It looks like you are starting out with a nearly perfect example of a Corsa...
UK Corsa.jpg
Image
Thanks bbodie will have a read through the links. Like the photo of my car at end thanks again

Sent from my [device_name] using Corvair Forum mobile app

User avatar
Vman
Corvair of the Year
Corvair of the Year
Posts: 23
Joined: Wed Mar 15, 2017 4:02 pm

Re: Suspension and brakes

Post by Vman »

66vairguy wrote:Vini - the issue of poor brake action has been covered on the corvaircenter forum many times. The 66 drum brakes were the same size as used on GM mid sized cars, so they are adequate for anything short of racing. The most common complaint is excessive pedal pressure caused by two things. The new brake shoe lining material is harder requiring greater pedal pressure. The brake shoe to drum arc is often a poor match causing minimal contact area. Some of the newer shoes are deliberately oversized to compensate for worn drums. I got a set that would NOT even fit inside original (no wear) brake drums.

I eventually found a brake shop that imports a shoe lining from Germany and they arc the shoes to fit the drums (which were turned so they are true). After that my brakes worked well, although manual brakes will always require more pedal pressure than boosted. I like the direct unboosted feel and can easily stop the car.

Regarding shocks. Folks find shocks to fit, if not correct. Koni makes shocks that fit the 66 Corvair, but they are expensive. Clark's Corvair contracted exclusively with Gabriel to have the Corvair 65-69 shocks reproduced. Gabriel WILL NOT sell them to anyone else per contract. The Gabriel Ryders tend to be firm. I prefer the Gabriel adjustable Striders set to FIRM in the rear and SOFT up front. Good ride and stable handling and a good second to the Koni's.

AFAIK all springs are now special order. The Corvair used several different spring rates depending on options and body style. If the front springs are original then you won't need to replace them, but note many cut a coil to lower the front to compensate for the sagging rear springs (always bad if original). I just replace the rear springs and that brings the car back to level. If you want to go racing then the HD springs lower the car about an inch and firm up the ride.

Clark's Corvair sells springs. If you get the factory spring part number for your car you can have them made up by Coil Spring Specialties - http://www.coilsprings.com/
Thanks vairguy will have take a look at the link for springs

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srt
Posts: 28
Joined: Sat Dec 09, 2017 10:34 pm

Re: Suspension and brakes

Post by srt »

I eventually found a brake shop that imports a shoe lining from Germany and they arc the shoes to fit the drums (which were turned so they are true

Not specifically Corvair related but I used to do brakes for my uncle back in the early thru the mid 60's.
From disassembly thru final assembly the job no matter the car was quite invlolved.
Bonded lining was new. Riveted lining was SOP.
I punched out so many rivets !
He taught me to always measure the turned drum. ALWAYS arc the the new shoes (riveted or bonded) & ALWAYS pay close attention to the final adjustment.
That has a lot to do with 'feel' as the adjusters are manipulated.

Didn't have many come backs!


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skipvair
Posts: 248
Joined: Sun Apr 30, 2017 8:17 pm

Re: Suspension and brakes

Post by skipvair »

I recently had a problem with new shoes and drums. Shoes were too tight. It wound up being the steel stamping had migrated from original size where the original crossbar (ford) for the parking brake fit. Had yo grind the slot out a little on the shoes. Crossbar was for parking brake and determined distance between shoes


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Frank Metasavage

65 Corsa 140 4 speed with Weber IDAs
66 Corsa 140 4 speed Stock
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