Suspension Upgrades

I upgraded the suspension in my Chevelle with tubular upper control arms, tall spindles, and poly bushings before it became fashionable.

I did NOT build this car for drag racing; I wanted to go fast on twisty/curvy backroads. This meant that handling was important.

At right is the first of two articles that “taught” (convinced) me to do this. This article from Hot Rod Magazine in 1987 featured modifications pioneered by HO Racing Specialties.

H-O Racing Specialties was a Pontiac performance company.
This modification added later model, taller, spindles to the A-model by changing out the upper and lower ball joints. This changes the roll center of the front-end suspension so the A-body stays flatter in the curves with the outer tire staying more vertical.

2. Now Beefier! New & Improved Knuckle Sandwich (1990)

GLOBAL WEST’S NEGATIVE-ROLL SUSPENSION FOR EARLY GM INTERMEDIATES

Later, Global West took the concept further by introducing the first fabricated upper control arm.

Along with using (taller) Front Spindles (from my ’73 Chevelle), I purchased parts from Global West. These included:

1. Tubular Upper Control Arms (w/ Ball Joint)
2. Lower Ball Joint to adapt ’73 spindle to ’67 lower arm.
3. Tie Rod Ends and adjusting sleeves to adapt to ’73 spindle.
4. Polyurethane Bushings (F & R; U & L).
5. Large 1¼” Front and Rear Anti-Sway Bars