Firebird 73: pragmativc approach for ride improvement

[David Pozzi]

I would order a matching front bar from Hellwig and install the front bar before adding the rear bar, this will keep the rear from having oversteer which is dangerous. Drive the car for a while and see how you like the handling. If you decide to lower the car, then look at getting just the Hotchkis front and rear springs & their Bilstein shocks.

You can fit a 245 tire front and rear easily BUT the wheels have to have the correct back spacing. We have run up to a 275 X 17 on the front and rear but back spacing has to be exactly right. A 245 would be easier to fit but again, you need the right back space on the wheels.

What is the rim width and back space you have now?

As Vince said, adding a good Delphi 600 steering box is a great improvement. The 12.7:1 constant ratio improves response, but the stiffer feel keeps the car from feeling over assisted. You would need a new rag joint to fit the smaller shaft, and hose adapters to adapt the O ring seal ports to 45 degree SAE flare threads to fit your hoses.

The car would drive & corner better with more positive caster, but that requires at least the tubular upper A arms. I think you can get by without them but they would be mandatory for autocrossing. The steering box will improve feel a lot. I would align the car to my specs on my web page.