What suspension parts do you buy?

[igosling]

All,

Have read an array of threads regarding suspension parts and setup, but as a newbie and in the throws of securing parts, I am just looking for a quality options for the HF3000 build.

Considering using the Leda units, but feel in the early life of the car these may be a little OTT. As at this stage I have no intention of racing/rallying, just road use.

So looking for a parts list initially that will do the job . Shocks, springs, top mounts etc. etc.


Iain

[mogul_x]

If you're using a Lancia Beta engine, you should be able to use the front struts from a Lancia Beta Coupe or HPE for the rear of the Hawk. I don't think there is a suitable donor part for the front shocks - it'll be some kind of GAZ or AVO (?) aftermarket unit whether you opt for Leda's or not.

For the Beta option, take the entire front strut assembly - Strut top mount, spring perch, spring, and strut. You will not need the hub carrier or steering knuckle, but you can use the hub if you're going with a 4-lug wheel.

If you're going with an Alfa v-6 for power, I'd suggest going straight for the Ledas, since the Beta struts are considered marginal with the additional weight of the Alfa. Springs and spring seats are available from Hawk. You'll still need the strut top mounts from the Beta.

For the front suspension, the donor parts are Fiat 132 stub axle, wheel bearings, and hub (for 4-lug wheels). The lower ball Joint is Fiat 124 Spyder. All other front suspension items are bespoke, and come with the kit.

Hope this answers your question?

[chris.richard]

You'll still need the strut top mounts from the Beta.


I think some people have used other aftermarket rosejoin topmounts, but these require modification of the chassis mounts to fit them.
I have a pair of the short Beta struts with springpans, but missing top mounts if you need them.
If going for the Leda struts, there seems to be a question over the valving on them. Martin K had to get his revalved softer, and mine are on the softest setting whith no sign of underdamping.

[Sptwoman]

I've just finished my suspension purchases and installation. I spent some time researching and ended up with the following as I want to do the car justice the 1st time around. It does mount up but it looks good and I hide all the receipts!!
If you've bought the HF3000 kit from Gerry then you'll be going Alfa V6 and he would have supplied most of the suspension i.e. wishbones etc.... For me:
Front - Gaz coil-overs supplied by Gerry. I can provide details of shox and spring if you want to source else where.
Rear - Leda struts and 4 1/2 " diameter springs as per original, top ali mounts with spherical bearings by Compbrake. Via Gerry and Compbrake.
Spring rates thanks to the forum and Martin K.
The 5 stud hubs via Gerry.
The other donor bits are stock as per the instruction manual as already mentioned in the thread

Chris, When you mention rose jointed top mounts do you mean spherical bearings where the strut bolts to? I've fiitted mine without mods so I hope they're ok!!!

[chris.richard]

Chris, When you mention rose jointed top mounts do you mean spherical bearings where the strut bolts to? I've fiitted mine without mods so I hope they're ok!!!

Yes, spherical bearings are what I meant. I don't know anything about them as I'm using the Beta ones. I thought that they needed a different mounting bolt pattern on the chassis than the Beta, but obviously not if you've done it! ;)

[Sptwoman]

The ali mount has the same Beta chassis mount pattern but the spherical joint I/S diameter is too large for the strut mounting so has a spacer to reduce down to the correct size.

[igosling]

All,

Thanks as ever for all the info. Will take the Hawk option for simplicity and what seems to be a quality option also.

Thanks

Iain