KLRBRD 1973 Trans Am Suspension Redo...4-link FAIL! - Lateral-g Forums

chichirone · #1 02-15-2015, 06:37 PM

We had a strange rattle over the last month and were chasing all kinds of remedies only to find the frame rail and 4-link on our 1973 Trans Am "KLRBRD" has failed us. The frame rail cracked and the Airbar separated from the UCA mount. We are going to rebuild the suspension and are looking for some opinions, suggestions or ideas since we are not necessarily starting over, just looking to capitalize on an opportunity to improve performance if we can.

We are working with to look at alternative designs and using some of the components from the 4-link. We are considering other options. We don't have an open checkbook on this one but would like to definitely do it right so let m know your thoughts.

Vince@Meanstreets · #2 02-15-2015, 06:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chichirone

We had a strange rattle over the last month and were chasing all kinds of remedies only to find the frame rail and Ridetech 4-link on our 1973 Trans Am "KLRBRD" has failed us. The frame rail cracked and the Airbar separated from the UCA mount. We are going to rebuild the suspension and are looking for some opinions, suggestions or ideas since we are not necessarily staring over, just looking to capitalize on an opportunity to improve performance if we can.

The car is at Dusold Designs in Lewisville, TX and we are working with Mike to look at alternative designs and using some of the components from the 4-link. We are considering DSE quarter-link or a 3 link setup. We don't have an open checkbook on this one but would like to definitely do it right so let m know your thoughts.

Check with RideTech first before you make any decisions.

The DSE quad is a great set up.

Rod P · #3 02-15-2015, 08:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chichirone

The frame rail cracked and the Airbar separated from the UCA mount.

sounds like the frame rail failed not the airbar... the air bar separated because it was trying to do the job of the frame rail...just put in new frame rails in and fix the air bar....what ever else you build will require new frame rails anyways.... second gens had VERY thin rails, from what I can tell...I know I have seen issues with 3 links and 4 links in the 2nd gens...

Bad94 · #4 02-16-2015, 11:48 AM

Before you go bashing RideTechs name, Did you call them?

chichirone · #5 02-16-2015, 11:59 AM

Thanks for the response Rodney. Frame rails are being replaced. Still assessing what to do next with suspension. Vince, I'll be calling Ridetech. Appreciate your insight.

chichirone · #6 02-16-2015, 12:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bad94

Before you go bashing RideTechs name, Did you call them?

First and foremost, I am not bashing. I stated exactly what occurred. The frame rail cracked and the 4-link bar separated. How is this bashing? I use my stuff and stuff breaks. Why not try to improve performance if the opportunity arises?

Vince@Meanstreets · #7 02-16-2015, 12:47 PM

I didn't read it as bashing either. Something broke. I don't like saying it but I've seen it before.

That frame rail was looking ugly before the set up was installed. 2nd gens aren't good to start with. I have had a few where you start drilling spot welds and half way through the frame rail drops out. With 60% spot welds left, not drilled. Yes its that bad.

Vince@Meanstreets · #8 02-16-2015, 12:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chichirone

Thanks for the response Rodney. Frame rails are being replaced. Still assessing what to do next with suspension. Vince, I'll be calling Ridetech. Appreciate your insight.

upper eye too, that could have been very bad.

**Josh@Ridetech** · #9 02-17-2015, 10:01 AM

Hey Jay,

I can't say that I've seen a 2nd gen frame rail split like that before, but it does look very thin. With the Airbar holding the rails together, it looks like it pulled on it hard enough to break the mount off. Have you had the chance to call in yet? If not, I'll be happy to help out! We'll make sure you get straightened away.

**GregWeld** · #10 02-17-2015, 10:14 AM

Sorry to see this Jay -- but sadly -- it happens all the time. And it's not RideTech -- as it's happened with several folks around here with various suspensions. The rails in these cars were junk when they were new -- add 40 years of rotting... then put big sticky tires and track the crap out of em with half a zillion horse power... LOL

Somebody needs to make new frame rails that are .120 wall or better.... and you weld them in fully, instead of old weak single shear spot welds to sheet metal.