I'm thinking about lowering the front of my 1971 Skylark because I think it sits too high. In trying to decide how far to go, I ended up with a question I can't find the answer to. Does anyone know what the measurement is from the spindle center to the top of the wheel arch on a small block car with stock springs? I'm trying to figure out if mine have sagged any or not. I don't want to spend money on a set of drop springs and end up not really any lower. My front tires are kinda tall so that's why I'm hoping someone knows the answer.
Scott, not sure about distance for spindle to top of wheel arch but the service manual shows a dimension of 27" from floor to top of front wheel arch. Similarly, another way to measure is from floor to bottom of rocker under door hinge area at 10 1/4" per manual. There are others more experienced on the forum which may be able to give more insight but this may help you evaluate your present ride height. You may get more change on your car by raising the rear dimension/spring reducin sag and leaving your stock springs alone if they are not out of spec.
Thanks for the reply John. I had found that info too. I was just hoping someone had a measurement that didn't include the tire height variable as mine aren't stock sized. Oh well, just some more math I guess.
One thing to keep in mind regarding your springs: If you're still on the original springs they will have settled a decent amount relative to brand new units. Essentially, your car may be "lowered" by the 40+ year old springs. The general opinion is that 1" lowering springs place the car fairly close to where it was with sagging springs or just slightly lower.
Larry, thank you for posting that I think it'll be useful for me. Logan, I agree with you. I think my springs probably have sagged. I'm trying figure out how much, so I don't spend money and end up almost exactly where I am now.
