US Ride Height Spacer? (Yes, I searched already...)

[Sean A]

Recently acquired a 74 Targa in beautiful condition, however i did notice that it is riding a bit high in the front, close to 26 inches. Ive been through pages and pages of lowering threads, and some talk about a rubber O ring at the top of the shock tower that was installed to get US 911's up to proper ride height.

My question is, where exactly is this spacer located? I dont exactly want to tear into the suspension to search for it. What exactly is the best way of getting the spacer out of wherever its located? Im assuming its underneath the mounting plate (which is covered in a tar-like gunk) in the front? Would jacking the car up, then removing the plate be the easiest way to remove this spacer?

[McLovin]

I think you are referring to the thick metal washer/spacer that was put on US 911s at some point. I know my 78 SC had it, not sure if cars as early as your did, too.

The spacer (either that one, or any other spacer on the shock or shock tower) doesn't actually change the ride height. Ride height is determined by the settings of the torsion bars.

The spacers were put in to try to make sure the shock operated in its designed range of operation after the cars were set at US ride height.

The spacer basically sits on top of the shock. To get it out, you need to remove the large nut on the top of the shock piston (in the trunk), then you can usually push the piston down, pull the top of the shock out, and pull the spacer off the top of the shock.

Again, just removing the spacer will not affect your ride height, though.

[HarryD]

Sean:

Welcome to the best 911 place on the Web.

As already noted, pullinghte rings will not accomplish what you are trying to do.

If do not have it already, Waynes 101 Projects for your 911 book includes instruction on how to lower your car.

If you are not willing to undertake the task yourself, there are plenty 911 specific shops here in Portland who can do this for you. When I did mine, I had Rothsport in Tualatin do my work. If you are going to do the work to lower your car, be sure you replace any tired suspension components first and consdier if you want to upgrade your sway bars.

Most likely your springplate bushings will need repalcement. Also, you should inspect and replace your trailing arm and A-arm bushings if they are showing signs of deterioration. Repalcement of shocks/struts may be in order as well.