Spring Plate Angle

chrisklinger · Posted: Tue Oct 25, 2022 2:36 pm Post subject: Spring Plate Angle

Hi guys,
I'm replacing (finally) the spring plate/torsion bar bushings.
I'm wondering, however...
The workshop manual gives me the angle, but my right side is sagging about 4cm more than the left.

If I just follow the manual, i should theoretically be good, as spring steel - supposedly - as long as never reaching an excessive load, will remain as original (Shigley et al., 2003
Reference: https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/what-causes-springs-to-wear-out.519055/ )
Yay science. But, it wasn't sagging before.
Of course, it could be just the bushings LOL
Do I set it to factory spec, and hope for the best?
Should I add an extra degree down on the right, and go by trial-and-error?
Should I search for new torsion bars?
Should I give up on my beloved VWs and get a modern car? (Yeah... no. Not a real consideration)
Any opinions appreciated
TIA,
Chris

slayer61 · Posted: Tue Oct 25, 2022 2:45 pm Post subject: Re: Spring Plate Angle

IF it was me, I would get the car up on jack stands & level, drop the spring plates off the bottom stop and get out the protractor before you remove them entirely. If there is a difference between them you will see it on the protractor. Adjust accordingly.
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rcroane · Posted: Tue Oct 25, 2022 3:50 pm Post subject: Re: Spring Plate Angle

I'm a little confused....you say "it wasn't sagging before".....before what? Have you already installed the new bushings and set the angle at stock, but one side is lower than the other?
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'65 Sunroof Bug

chrisklinger · Posted: Tue Oct 25, 2022 4:19 pm Post subject: Re: Spring Plate Angle

Before, as in, I bought the car on 1987. Sagging only started in the last couple of years, and I haven't had the spring plate covers off.

chrisklinger · Posted: Tue Oct 25, 2022 4:25 pm Post subject: Re: Spring Plate Angle

I'll measure the angles when I replace the bushings, before pulling the plate from the splines. But it hasn't been altered (I've had the car since 1987).

And I suspect that even a weak spring will return to its original, no-load position when unladen. But, I could be wrong.

I'm just trying to line my ducks up before attacking this.

I'm smart. Smart enough to know that I can't know everything Smile

I appreciate the input; every bit is valuable Smile

rcroane · Posted: Tue Oct 25, 2022 4:29 pm Post subject: Re: Spring Plate Angle

KTPhil · Posted: Tue Oct 25, 2022 4:40 pm Post subject: Re: Spring Plate Angle

Plan on 2-3 iterations before you get it right after settling the suspension by driving a mile or so.

rcroane · Posted: Tue Oct 25, 2022 4:42 pm Post subject: Re: Spring Plate Angle

chrisklinger · Posted: Wed Oct 26, 2022 2:44 am Post subject: Re: Spring Plate Angle

Thanks a million guys Smile

I'm looking forward to slowly getting her perfect again.


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