Whew! Finally, after having the parts on my shelf for many months, today I installed the Betts Springs (front and rear) and the Old Man Emu shocks on my beloved (?) Syncro Westy 'Otto'. Rears were a breeze, front installation cause me to open part of my vocabulary I rarely use....BUT, oh, what a difference! My first drive was up through a mountain (paved) road, and right away I can feel a HUGE difference, ride is pleasingly stiffer, and no more wallowing in corners or over heaves in the road. It seems to corner more precisely, more direct. Of course, I haven't touched the alignment yet. Initial height specs, measured from the center of the wheel to the fender lip: Rear, 19 3/8" (both sides), left front, 19 1/8", right front 19 1/4". Otto now has a clear 12" to 12.5" of ground clearance, with the 235/75-15 BS Dueler A/Ts, take that, oh mighty Jeep/Xterra/Blazer/Explorer/etc!! I am one happy camper, well pleased with the transformation! Now, if I can only find some free time to go camp off-road somewhere, and really test it....... Karl Mullendore Westy Ventures 1987 Syncro Westfalia 1.9TD 1985 Transporter singlecab |
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