Date:         Fri, 15 Feb 2002 13:38:24 -0800
Reply-To:     developtrust <developtrust@HOME.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         developtrust <developtrust@HOME.COM>
Subject:      Springs replacement and adding shims on 1989 Camper
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

On Monday 2-18-02 I will be replacing the front springs from Steve's inventory via VW Cafe. I'm having Fred my VW dealer mechanic who owns his own vanagon do the work. In addition replacing the upper ball joints and any bushings needing replacement.

I invite any last advice before I have work done. I am told that adding shims is not a one to one relationship to correct a lefty sway.

My plan is to add two 1/8 inch rubber shims to the top of the left spring to compensate for that extra weight on the left of the camper (shims are 5 & 1/4 inch in diameter with a 3 & 1/2 inch center hole and reinforced in the center with nylon cloth.) The rubber shims will give a little and conform for a proper fit. My front sways to the left now between 1/4 & 1/2 inch.

I'm doing the rear springs myself since it is so easy to do and will add shims to the left rear as needed because I can take it apart and remove or add shims if I over or under compensate.

If anyone has put on new springs with or without shims I would love to hear your advice before Monday rolls around and when the front work will be virtually irreversible (unless I want to spend another $160 to redo the work.)

William Polowniak
1989 Vanagon GL
1988 Mercedes 300 SE