Re: Shocks and Height

[Godfrey DiGiorgi <ramarren@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

I'm not too familiar with the '90s Spider setups. If they're similar to 
the '78-'82 models, when you change the ride height you will also need to 
obtain the adjustable upper control arms for the front suspension that 
will allow you to set up the camber properly. 

On my Spider ('79 chassis), I've fitted a set of IAP's springs and red 
Koni shocks. The IAP springs lower the car just about an inch all the way 
around, which puts it to the same ride height as what my long-lost '71 
was. One thing I'm not 100% happy with is that I think the IAP springs 
leave the tail a little lower than optimal ... someday I'll get a set of 
Ward & Dean springs for it instead. I fitted adjustable upper control 
arms (along with all new ball joints, tie rod ends, control arms, etc). 
The front suspension was set up with 1/32" toe in, 1 degree negative 
camber and as much caster as could be cranked in without interference 
(about 2.5 degrees, it varies a little from car to car). I'm very pleased 
with the setup. 

Since it's fitted with  '82 rims (6" wide vs the previous 5.5" wide), 
I'll likely fit the 205/60-14 tires next. They're about 2% shorter than 
the 185/70-14s I currently have for another couple of mm lowering and a 
nice compromise between the slightly tall gearing ('82 rear axle) I'm 
running now and the slightly short '78/'79 stock gearing I used to have.

Godfrey

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