K member? Really?

mmmtasty_2000 · Feb 8, 2012

Hey everyone! Im currently working on a 72 Satellite/RR. Currently doing body work but im starting to plan other things. Right now the car is like driving a large boat - Suspension is all original.

My intentions for this car is to be a garage queen that is driven on sunday. I have no intention to race this car at all. That is unless some ricer smarts off at a red light :icon_fU:

But it is very important how the car handles.

With that being said does anyone think dropping 4-5 grand on a K member would greatly improve my driving experience on road?

Or is there any upgrade/rebuild to the original front suspension that will give me more responsive handling?

If anyone that has done this in your car could pro and con this for me I would appreciate it.

Thanks Guys

SureGrip · Feb 8, 2012

Common thought is that aftermarket k-frames and tubular control arms are really only for track use.

If you want decent handling, the stock components will work just fine, as long as they are in good shape.

Simple upgrades like poly bushings, stiffer torsion bars, 11/16" tie rods, and proper alignment will make a world of difference without spending a ton of cash.

Here's a quick link to an on-line article: http://www.moparaction.com/Tech/beep/PUMP_IT_DOWN-re-v1.4.pdf

Mopar Action has a LOT of info on how to make them handle.

Meep-Meep · Feb 8, 2012

X2 above.

Also don't forget to add the big 11.75" brakes found on the mid 70's luxury liners.

Relax360 · Feb 14, 2012

the 5k i spent on my Alterkation for my A-body was well worth it. I have plans to do the same on my 70 RR.

SRTSatellite · Feb 14, 2012

Tubular k members are also good for things like Starter, header, and oil pan clearances. And allow the installation of rack and pinion steering. And they are lighter and just as if not stronger than original.I say go for it.

68383GTS · Feb 14, 2012

What do you want to do with the car?My 71 with stock suspension rides and handles very nice.

SureGrip · Feb 14, 2012

68383GTS said:
What do you want to do with the car?My 71 with stock suspension rides and handles very nice.

Damnit, that's nice lookin.

greenmonsta79 · Feb 14, 2012

Thats a great lookin' RoadRunner!!!

mmmtasty_2000 · Feb 16, 2012

68383GTS said:
What do you want to do with the car?My 71 with stock suspension rides and handles very nice.

Nice Car

This car will likely never see a drag strip or autocross or anything like that. I am a family man on a budget.

Mainly I have just never driven or even ridden in one of these cars when the suspension was in good shape. I only know how it is now and its something I am sure my wife wouldn't let me take our kids out in. So before I overhaul the old suspension I was just hoping for a little input from you folks that have done this already.

I can say what I want is the Alterktion piece, but outside of clearance and more modern power steering do you really notice anything better on spirited street driving.

Also does this K member force you to upgrade to aftermarket braking?

I think bottom line is I could think of a lot of things on the car that could use the extra money.

Jim Bob The Dancing Bear · Feb 17, 2012

My car is about like yours except more of an everyday driver. No drag strips and only an autocross or two to get it out of my system.

I am doing the Hotchkis TVS.

But on more of a budget I would do Firm Feel upper control arms for more caster, good poly bushings, an adjustable strut rod, moog ball joints and tie rods, PST or firm feel torion bars and same for leafs. I would also look at PST, ADDCO, and Helwig for sway bars front and rear.

I am in love with my Hotchkis TVS but it wasn't cheap... but cheaper than an Altercation. I have about $3,500 in everything from the TVS, bushings, leaf springs, torsion bars, pitman and idler arm, and spring shackles. I shouldn't have to ever change anything but bushings and ball joints for the rest of my life though.

myaerocars · Feb 19, 2012

I think what others have said about rebuilding the stock system with poly bushings, larger anti sway bars, decent shocks and torsion bars and front sway bar just over 1.0 inch will go a very long way towards a safe and enjoyable ride. Add a 3/4 inch rear bar if it does not have one.

My Superbird clone is very stock..... no special pieces and I am on a really tight budget and a family man as well. She handles fine for me .. with just spirited driving around some twisty back roads. No track time.... just a driver. I would think for about $1,200 to $1,500
you should have a nice riding car.

Godspeed,
JON

K member? Really?

mmmtasty_2000

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