Talk Morgan Forums Morgan Sports Cars Classic Morgans (pre-CX) Esme's rear end.

I would post pics but the ones I have taken are terrible so a description will have to suffice.

I have just completed a rear shocker/damper mod on my 1961 2str Plus 4. The antiquated Armstrong lever arm things have been replaced with Spax gas filled adjustable dampers. They are actually made for a Cassic Mini rear with lowered suspension but they are the right dimensions for the job. I fabricated new top mounting brackets with a cross bar for stability (similar to proprietry brands) plus new saddle plates for the lower end. New H/D 'U' bolts from Mulfab completes the package. In addition I have created a couple of adjustable buffers similar to those which Rog (I think) posted a while back. The idea of these is to prevent the leaf springs from curling into a letter 'S' under heavy acceleration. The buffers can be screwed up out the way if they prove to be detrimental in any way.

I must state here that I am no racing engineer so please don't assume that I know a lot about the game, I am just copying ideas from much wiser men than I. The result however is amazing.

Spax set at one click above softest.

Buffers set approx 4mm above front of top leaf and approx 8" behind front mounting bolt.

Vredstein Sprint classic tyres set at 21 psi.


I don't know if the buffers are actually doing anything in this setup, I only know that Esme has been transformed into a go-kart. When cornering the rear axle is glued to the tarmac like never before.

Nev.

Plenty of info here if it helps
http://www.gomog.com/allmorgan/shocks.html

If You like the results You did the right thing.

I have experimented with Armstrong Lever Shocks and Koni shocks for years as well as used the Mulberry anti tramp rod. I switched Konis' and Levers back and forth as well as various springs. Konis' and Levers are equal IMO. Anti tramp rods were unnecessary IMO. However I liked the Rutherford Modification on My springs. This is a 1963 +4-4Str with 3 trips across the US Coast to Coast and a trip to Europe for the LeMans 50th. Shipped +4 from the West Coast (Tacoma) to Southampton and back to Boston and then drove to Seattle (West Coast). Handles better and rides better than My +8 as well as several others I have also driven. Does not ride nor handle better than a 3.0 Roadster (I have driven them a bit).

I must add, that I have not driven anything newer than a 2005 Roadster. I wish I could.

Nev that is the set up I have on my 1957 plus 4 and I agree with you 100% the difference in road holding has transformed the driving experience beyond recognition. Unlike you though mine was a Rutherford hoop and attachments. A relatively simple idea but one well worth doing.