Date:         Wed, 14 Nov 2001 21:51:35 -0800
Reply-To:     John Clemens <jbclem@EARTHLINK.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         John Clemens <jbclem@EARTHLINK.NET>
Subject:      Installing front springs 2WD
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="Windows-1252"

I'm installing the new front springs on my 1983 Westfalia and I have two
quick questions.  On the front springs is there a top and a bottom?  There
was no mention of this in the limited instructions that came with them, and
the Bentley manual says to make sure the "straight end" of the spring goes
on the bottom.  Well great, the original ones have straight ends on the top
and the bottom.  The new ones have straight ends with slight chamfers, but
one end has more of a chamfer than the other.
Also, if you line up the top end with the orginal spring top end, the bottom
ends don't match in location(not even close).  Does this mean anything in
the great scheme of things?  I hope someone knows the answer.

Other question, I'm replacing the bushing where the stabilizer link fits
over the stabilizer bar(the stabilizer link is the vertical piece between
the stabilizer bar and the lower control bar, it has a eye on the top
portion(for the bushing) and a threaded piece on the bottom).  I need to
know an easy way to remove the stabilizer link from the stabilizer bar, the
bushing isn't worn enough to slide off over the flared end of the stabilizer
bar and I don't want to remove the entire bar(and use a press) if I can
avoid it.  A good trick would be real welcome(also for the reverse
installation).

Thanks for any suggestions.

John