Shock/T-bar dilemma...need advice
 

Hello,

I am preparing for an autocross next weekend with my 1979SC. I have noticed a slight "ka-thunk, ka-thunk" sound as I go over bumps, and believe that I have it identified as a damaged Bilstein shock.

(I think I damaged it by not removing the big washer at the top of the shock when I lowered my car, and then driving until it went "bang" a few times:D )

The car seems to handle fine now that I removed the washer, with the exception of the slight noise.

Anyway, I ordered new Bilstein Sports and 22/28 t-bars from Wayne, which will arrive Wednesday. But I don't think I'll have time to do all four t-bar install + height + alignment tweaks by working the evenings Wed-Fri.

I have heard that stiffer t-bars should only be pared with sport shocks. So, should I go to the autocross as-is with a potentially damaged shock, or put the Bilstein sports on with my stock T-bars? Or pull a couple of "all-nighters" and try to do the T-bars too, knowing that if I fail or something goes wrong (seems like something always goes wrong), I will not be able to participate in the autocross?

Thanks in advance!

there will be plenty of AX's in the coming months, i would not rush the upgrades to try to make one event. i would also not run a car i suspect has problems with suspension at an ax. the season is young, spend next weekend installing your parts and get your alignment and such done the following week.

have you got turbo tie rods installed currently? have you got all the fasteners you may need to replace in hand? will you be doing ball joints too? i dont see where you've noted actual milege, so the balljoints may not be needed. thats a while yer in there thing. will you be replacing any of your bushings while you are at it?

maybe further part gathering is in order? do a search for "suspension refresh, or rebuild" and you will find some threads. i had one going when i did mine and it may be of some help.

edit- here>>>http://forums.pelicanparts.com/showthread.php?threadid=177139&highlight=suspensio n+rebuild

Thanks,

That's some good, conservative advice. Already installed turbo tie-rods, new ball joints, and replaced (most) bushings, FYI.

I have sports on stock t-bars, it is not ideal but okay.