Mark Donohue’s iconic book, The Unfair Advantage, mentions the breakthrough softer springs gave him in developing the TransAm Camaros. I really wanted to try that approach for myself with the Pinto.
It was apparent that cut down OEM coils were a dead end & so I canvassed the ‘Net for a softer pair. With some guesstimating a rate about 40-50% lighter seemed about right, and after some great (and educational) emails from Mike at Eaton Detroit Springs, a beautiful pair of custom-wound coils showed up about 2 weeks later. James & I spent an afternoon trimming them to the right height and adjusting the Konis to the #2 rebound position.
When I finally went for a spin, I was blown away…I couldn’t believe it was the same car. There’s a nice “driver’s corner” on the way home and this time when I approached, the brakes snuggled the car down predictably, the front end bit and I went through the turn like a tarantula on velcro. No muss, no fuss. Even with the brakes in “Vintage NASCAR” spec (drum all around) there’s really good feel and it feels very nice - firm, but supple and it just glides over most bumps. It was a real thrill when the car finally responded to mods like I thought it should…..(!)
Eventually I’ll be adding front discs & sway bars (natch), but the rear suspension is overdue for some work next, and maybe a header as well….
