Rims rubbing on lower balljoint

[wrenchnride247]

Spacers would be cheaper than new rims, but if you went to 16" rims you would fix the scraping. Just make sure the spacers are just enough to correct scraping issue. Too much spacer, and wheels stick out past fenders , and can give you a wider track than the rear (unless you space rear too).

[redhot]

Can`t change the wheels... I love the,

[wrenchnride247]

You could loose the dropped spindles, and use adjustable beam. Spacers and wider fenders look like your future though.

[redhot]

Hi,

Looking more into the adjustable beam option: would the comfort/driveability suffer? As in harsh ride? Would oil shocks or gas be the best?

Assuming the same amount of lowering, about 2,5". The PUMA have as I understand a maximum of about 5"

[wrenchnride247]

The PUMA beam is one of the better adjustable beams (I've had one for 15 years or so). Gas shocks for sure (KYB GR-2 for lowered beam). Depending on how you set-up the height, the ride is not too bad. Mine (was) set-up for cornering, but now I have dropped spindles and bigger sway bar (+16 inch wheels). I preloaded the torsion bars to give better cornering before. because, I didn't have a sway bar (don't ask). Now I have it set-up softer (just a little). To have the best ride using only a dropped beam, you just have to make sure the upper and lower torsions are set on the same setting. If you want it stiffer. Lock the bottom close to stock height, and put weight on front end then set the top to the height you want.

[redhot]

Hi,

Thank you for the reply! Appreciate opinions on this...
Would you say that you gained a lot of comfort with the dropped spindels? This is not going to be a track car, but my summertime-cruiser


Another option I consider is adjusting to a large negative camber at the front, and thereby pushing the wheels out from the lower balljoint. Any opinions on this?

[wrenchnride247]

The dropped spindle's give more of a "stock like" ride. So, they are better than just adjustable beam, but if you don't go to low the rides not bad with beam only.

The more negative camber, more (faster) tire wear.

They make a 2 inch narrowed puma beam (CB Performance). You could get spacers to clear ball joint on dropped spidle, and stay inside stock fender lip. The narrowed beam will require narrowed torsion leaves, and tie rod assy. Which CB also sells.