Front Wheel/Suspension Alignment

[63BlueMGB]

Hello once again,

I recently just put my V8 in my 63 MGB, and adjusted my tie rods based upon this thread, http://forum.britishv8.org/read.php?7,47410. Now the cars suspension/Wheels are pointed in on the top and the bottom are flared out, I am still using the 63 Springs. Do I need to upgrade springs or is there an adjustment that I am not aware of? My tires in the front are 245/45/R17. Any help or suggestion are greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance

[Moderator]

My guess is that your car has aftermarket Negative Camber lower control arms installed. If so, they're a little longer than stock. Negative camber can be helpful for autocrossing (where you're making quick turns one after another), but it compromises braking. New/stock lower control arms are cheap. If in doubt, I'd buy and install them. Of course, you'll have to redo your toe-in adjustment. Camber adjustment isn't normally made via shims on an MGB.

[mgb260]

Nick, Neg. camber lower arms would be my guess also. Another thought would be you tightened  all the suspension bolts without the engine weight.  Try loosening them a little and retighten.

[MGBV8]

Yep, too much negative camber. your tie rod ends had nothing to do with this. Measure your lower A-arms to see if they are the longer ones (very likely).

Your A-arms look fairly parallel to the ground so don't worry about '63 coil springs right now.

[63BlueMGB]

Measured the length of my bottom plates and it measures about 12" from bolt hole to bolt hole. Is this the length of aftermarket control arms or are these the original ones.

I also did tighten my suspension when the motor was out of the car, however, the bolt holes do not have that much adjustment, so I cannot see that making  that much difference but i could be wrong.

Thanks again for any help in advanced

[mgb260]

Nick, could you have bolted the upper arm to the top of the kingpin facing the wrong way. Check yours with pictures of the MGB front suspension.

[WernerVC]

Talking of front end alignment, is there any re-adjustment to make on the caster ? Is it an advantage to give more caster by adding a shim between the cross member and the chassis ?
Werner

[mgb260]

Werner, Most shim for less caster, easier steering.