Suspension - Standard, Protech or Nitrons

[bertie]

I've got a Tuscan Mk2 convertible and whilst I love it to bits, it isnt the most reassuring thing on the road.

Tends to hunt cambers and generally be a bit darty, so was looking to ge the suspension setup.

Before I send it, what's the view on standard vs Protech vs Nitron suspension kits?

I'm not after making it a track monster, just feel more confident and composed for moderate road use.

As always, all advice gratefully recieved.

[Sagi Badger]

Before the predictable responses just my thoughts. I have a couple of T cars and I know what you mean. On both I increased the tyre width to correct size per width of wheel. If you want instant steering response then stretch the tyres, if you want armchair then fatten them up. I keep side walls vertical. Dampers, springs, geo yep all a part of it but get the right size tyres, IMHO anyway. works for me

[Granturadriver]

I have just learned again how important the correct adjustment of the suspension and its components is for everything, for example the damping through the standard bushes as opposed to the poly bushes. I also learned that the cross member bolts should only be tightened under load to ensure preload. I am currently having my suspension adjusted accordingly.

So before you start flirting with other components to rectify faults, I recommend that you should first clarify whether the current setting is correct at all.

[The Three D Mucketeer]

I've got a Tuscan Convertible which I've had from new . The first thing I did (recommended by Ben Lang , TVRs Convertible suspension designer ) was to put 225/40s on the front and the 255/35s used as spares for the rear . Ben told me the only reason 255s went on the front was because Peter Wheeler prefered the " look" of fat tyres !!! that got rid of tramlining

Secondly raised the steering rack as high as it would go before fouling the chassis members . 5/6mm IIRC. .. that removed the Bump steer

When the Billies/Eibachs were done (about 3 years ago) , I replaced with Nitrons and changed the spring rates to 400lbs/inch (front) and 325 lbs/inch (rear) and I put Michelin Sports 4 on ..... that just gave the whole car a better feel

All work done by Heath Briggs at X-Works , ex TVR Service (Rectifications) Manager


PS "S" s came out the factory with different spring rates that non "S"s (well ... were meant to )

I think Nitrons are better engineered , although I'm told because they're Rose jointed rather than bushed as the Billies they need to be kept clean. But my bottom is spotless in any case .

Edited by The Three D Mucketeer on Saturday 29th June 10:16