Date:         Mon, 12 Jan 2015 11:19:16 -0800
Reply-To:     Robert Ueltzen <robueltzen@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Robert Ueltzen <robueltzen@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Harsh suspension
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8

I have a 1987 Wolfsburg edition with 202,000 miles.

Here’s my problem.  For a couple of years, my van has ridden like it has no
springs.  Every little road seam rattles the car and jars my fillings
loose.  The tires are Hankook RA08 185R14C with 40 PSI front and 50 PSI
rear.  They have about 10,000 miles on them.  The change in tires had no
effect on the suspension compliance.   Last summer I replaced the original
shocks with Bilstein HD and all the bushings and ball joints in the
suspension.  This had no effect on the suspension compliance.

I feel like I am down to the spring replacement as the last element that
could improve the suspension compliance.   Can coil springs become
work-hardened through years of use and lose their elasticity?   If so, any
recommendations for a source of good replacements? The 87 Wolfsburg has the
short springs like the later Carat.  I do my driving on California streets
and highways.

Rob Ueltzen
1987 Wolfsburg Vanagon
TIICO Conversion