A Subframe Less Traveled

[tyoneal]

Hello:

As most of you know I bought Lateral-1 about a year ago. I've been having a get time with it, and have been considering where to take it next.

I have the 3-link in the Rear (Lateral Dynamics) it's a fabulous piece. The front end has not been changed out with a new subframe, AND I'm going to be Running Wheels that are like the Mini Lites of the, "Trans Am", Era.

This means NO AFX SPINDLES, as the wheels, like they were in the 60's, are designed to work with only the stock Spindles. That's ok as Wilwood makes a great 13 inch Brake Package that works with the stock spindles. They are 6 Pot.

I've got the Howe Tall Ball Joints,
Global west UCA'a and LCA's made to hold Coilover shocks.
Ats Chicane LM Coil Over Brackets
Penske 8300 Shocks
Hotchkiss Front Sway Bar
The Wheels, "PS Engineering", while having many of the "Old fashoned Traits of the earler ones, are 17 inch in Diameter.
Tires are, "Y" Rated 245-45-17's
Detroit Speed Subframe Connectors.

I want to see what kind of performance can be had out of a Stock Front Subframe, and I would like your thoughts and ideas of what I could do to increase it.

I know I have a "Bump Steer" issue inherant in the stock Spindles. I was going to address this with the kit Baer makes. I haven't heard of anyone using them, but Baer usually makes quality parts.

I was Going to Use the ATS Steering Box, or the Rack and Pinion made by unisteer, or one of the other makers of this type of steering. (Appleton, Flaming River Etc.)

What Can I do, or which way would you take the steering, or anything else you can think of, that is deficient in the front end.

I would appreciate any and all suggestions you have, other than, "Change the Front SubFrame".;-)

Also, since the Brakes will be changed, what Backing plates would you recommend so a Brake Cooling Hose could be attached to them?

I will also be changing out the steering column. I want Tilt and Telescopic functions with it. Any recommendations?

I appreciate your help.

Thanks,

Ty O'Neal