...to clear my 255/60/15's that don't fit under the fenders. I am using air shocks to gain about 2" of height(60 to 70 lbs pressure). This is working fine but, I don't think this is the best way. I installed those bolt on "spring boosters" this weekend. They gave me about 1/2" and some stiffness, which I do not mind. The stiffer it is, the less I have to raise up the rear.

[img]http://members.aol.com:/gsv4041/rearbird[/img]

Main question: What is the drawback of using airshocks for this?

What is the alternative other than replacing the springs? I may want put stock rims back on in future.

Fire away!!!

that is why they put 14 inch tires and wheels from the factory.the danger with the air shocks when they develope a leak,you will sustain damage to your quarter panels and tires.

Greg,
Had a similar problem on my Challenger. I took my springs to a spring shop and had them re-arched for an extra 2 inches (MOL) of height.

Your other choice might be to replace the wheel with something with less backspace. Would bring them in under the fender better.
(Re-arching would be cheaper!)

Lee, I like the Cragars and, I can't get any "deeper" than 4-1/4" back spacing. I'd need about 5". Thanks for the input.

"that is why they put 14 inch tires and wheels from the factory"

Birdman, I knew I'd get some comments to that affect.

Keep it coming!

I bet Terry's house is covered in wall to wall shag carpeting and avacado green appliances

Greg, Im surprised your having a problem with those tires. Mine snug up nice without a problem at all. 275 60R 15

I put a new spring pack and slightly longer shackle on the back of mine and it's got plenty of clearance. I have 275/50/15's on it which are 26x10.

Joe Papa, you got photos? What is the backspacing on your rims?

Just checked your photo on the forum. I think the '69's are more forgiving than the '67-'68's regarding fat tires.

Maytbe you need to swap leafs with Nashville!??

I thought of that, B.

Greg, I ran close to the same set up on my 68... and never had much of a problem... but your rear wheels look perhaps slightly wider then I had?

http://firstgenfirebird.org/show/closeup.mv?CarID=85

I don't remember the offset I had, but I think mine were 7" wide wheels... are you sure you can't get them in a custom offset? Might be worth checking around?

Brett - 67 Drop Top 455!
http://firstgenfirebird.org/show/closeup.mv?CarID=129

I have the same brand and size tires on my 68 Convertable and use airshocks to get them not to rub. A temp fix at best.

I am using the air shocks until I replace the rear springs this summer. As far as I have reasearched, this is the safest most reliable way to get the larger tires to fit without rubbing or bottoming out.

As for the others who run this setup without problems, I guess their springs haven't sagged as much as ours pover the years.

I wouldn't use air shocks for very long. too much force could rip the upper shock mount, and you will have to have it welded. it's not designed to hold the back end up, it's designed to just dampen the ride.

you could use longer shackles to raise the rear

For those interested:

My brother gave me a pair of single leaves(springs)he removed from a Tahoe. They are quite a bit stouter than the individual leaves on the 'bird. I removed and replaced the second leaf from the bottom, keeping all others. This put my rear right where I wanted to be with no assist from the air-shocks. We'll see if she settles down over the next several miles. Can't beat the price!! And it was an easy project.

Also, while under the car, I noticed (duh!!) that the bottom leaf on the 'bird is a half length leaf, only projecting forward from the spring shackle. Is this correct?

Bump...

Anyone notice my question re the stock springs...?

Greg,
I replaced my factory leaf springs many years ago so I cannot remember what they looked like. But the replacements are symmetrical five leafs.

I took a look last night-
Greg, my #5 spring is also asymmetrical, just like yours: very short and thin, sticking out the front and not the back.
All my springs are the originals.