PST Adjustable Strut Rods Pro and Con

[bolson6333]

it was brought up on another thread that there was a problem with these. I purchased a pair for my 64 wagon that runs in the tens and am now wondering if I should put them on or not. Would like opinions please and especially from someone that has used them. thanks

 

[BLK 68 R/T]

I have them...no issues.

 

[5.7 hemi]

I like them and use them on my Dart GT.

 

[gkent]

I think the issue is that they move the pivot point rearward which changes front end geometry. I suppose a suspension expert could explain the downside. Personally I don't see what the gain is compared to the expense.

 

[5.7 hemi]

The heim joint allows the lower control arm to move much easier in its operating range. That’s it, no more, no less.

 

[gkent]

Thing is, that pivot point is about 3" rearward of the original point. Since the strut is rigidly bolted to the lca, moving that pivot point is detrimental to the movement of the lca.

 

[5.7 hemi]

Not with the heim joint.

 

[Sixpactogo]

I think the issue is that they move the pivot point rearward which changes front end geometry. I suppose a suspension expert could explain the downside. Personally I don't see what the gain is compared to the expense.

I don't understand how the pivot point can move rearward. how can that happen? It seems to me, if the suspension moves up or down, the length would get shorter pulling the gemoetry forward rather than rearward. The Heim joint can't collapse or stretch like the rubber mount can. I agree with the expense comment though. They are an added cost but so is every other improvement. I guess that means I believe they are an improvement.

 

[bolson6333]

the rubber bushing play is what I thought they would eliminate. Think I'll give them a try. Thanks to all for your input.

 

[gkent]

I don't understand how the pivot point can move rearward.

On the stock strut the pivot point is at the front of the K member where the bushings are. With the mechanical struts the bracket bolts solid at that point and the pivot point moves back behind the front K member structure. So the pivot point is moved rearward about 3" or so. This does two things 1) pulls the lca forward when the front of the car rises and 2) causes the lca to twist slightly. Is all this a big deal? Probably not BUT that is what occurs.

 

[5.7 hemi]

Negative Ghost rider! Lol! Because the bars themselves are adjustable, you don’t run into that problem. The proper way to set them up is this....
1. Take shock and torsion bar out
2. Install the adjustable PST strut rod
3. Now using a jack, cycle the suspension up/down and adjust the bar length so it doe NOT pull/push the lower control arm and that it moves without any binding.
4. Tighten the bolts/nuts
5. Reinstall shock and torsion bar
6. Do the same for the other side
7. Take a spin, have a beer when you get back for a job well done

 

[bolson6333]

thanks 5.7 hemi that just answered another question

 

[5.7 hemi]

No problem!