Date:         Wed, 16 Sep 2015 16:04:07 -0600
Reply-To:     Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: lifting a 1990 Carat
Comments: To: Dan N <dn92610@GMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <CAFdLW6=9jrUwYX9mGAS+qELE+c=+oSFD_Xhi4hnsNrx2YL0Ekw@mail.gmail.com>
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Best option is to replace the springs with a normal set. The Syncro.org-Van Café springs have been a favorite for me especially when combined with the Bilstein shocks. Being in New York really stiff shocks do little more than make for a jarring ride and help break stuff. You really need some compliance to swallow road faults and allow the suspension to move. 
 
One thing to consider when raising the ride height is the effect on the suspension geometry. The front radius rods control the caster (relationship of upper to lower ball joints) and when the van is raised the angle of these rods is changed effectively shortening them. Also, when at too much of an angle braking will try to pull the rods straight resulting in nose dive during braking. The bump stops, (helper springs) are also different for the Carat springs. They should be replaced with the longer ones when using taller springs. 

Dennis




-----Original Message----- 
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Dan N
Sent: Wednesday, September 16, 2015 10:21 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: lifting a 1990 Carat

hi all,

as far as I know (according to measurements of the vans we have) - from center of wheel to the wheel arch (front wheels - all vans are tin-top) - all vans are sitting level, none has sagging rear...

- Carat: 15.5"

- GL:  17"

- Syncro: 19"

so the Carat is the lowest and I would like to lift it up a bit, not as high as the Syncro but as hight as the GL would be nice...

I just entertain this idea but a bit afraid of taking away the unique characteristic of the Carat...

so... if I do it... what's the best way to lift it up? (at reasonable
price) - as it is now the Carat has stock springs with Red Classic Konis at stiffest setting...

thanks for any idea...

dan