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MG MGA - Rear suspension rebuild question

Guys, I have just refitted the rear springs and suspension to my renovated chassis and face a dilema. I have just sandbalsted and repainted the original rear springs (not re-tensioned or such) and fitted new shackle plates, rubbers, bushes, telescopic conversion shockies and rebound straps but find that the new rebound straps when fitted to the bare rolling chassis (less body) are stretched to their limit ( the shockies are not the cause as they are not at either limit and the problem stays if they are removed). This has me thinking could the supplier have given me MGB ones in error (are they shorter) or is someone out there able to suggest a reason. Surely the body weight is not that great. I can sit inthe chassis above the axle and there is no slack at all. What is the length of the MGA rebound strap centre hole to centre hole? Your help would be appreciated
regards
mark
Mark Mathiesen

The rebound straps are stretched to the limit when there is not enough load on the chassis. Your condition is normal. If the chassis will be left unloaded for a long time this could damage the rebound straps. If left under a constant load the straps could fail. Mine did.
R J Brown

Mark, don’t worry about it! I too had the same problem and wrote to Barney about it. He posted my picture and an explanation on his site. Once you place the body it does settle down to the right height. That is providing you didn't re-arch the springs incorrectly. You will also find the brake cable lays on the exhaust pipe. I would disconnect one end of the rebound strap until you place the body to prevent them from cracking, because they will! Another solution would be to go with the new nylon straps that they are selling on eBay.I am thinking about it the next time they break. The rubber ones just don't last that long. Sent you a pic of mine.
Regards, Bill



WMR Bill

Mark, Two new straps in my garage measure 225mm. hole centres. In my experience of 6 MGA body-off rebuilds I have always had to wait until they are fully loaded with trim, bumpers, seats - everything!! before the chassis settled enough to attach the straps. Do not attempt to attach them by stretching - they will break. WMR is quite right about the brake cable - it will also foul the exhaust - until the body settles. Just be patient.
Good luck, Barry
BM Gannon

This thread was discussed between 07/12/2007 and 08/12/2007

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