Talk Morgan Forums Morgan Sports Cars Classic Morgans (pre-CX) 5 link suspension

Collected my car today after fitting of the SSL 5 link rear suspension. Only driven it a short distance so far but my initial feelings are that it makes it a much more positive and comfortable drive, the crashing when I go over potholes is greatly reduced. As it’s adjustable I could make it a harder drive if it’s a little soft but I’ll leave it as it is for a while and see how it goes.
It was fitted by BHM and Brett (who fitted it) and Keith were both impressed, that seems like a pretty good recommendation considering their experience of driving many Mogs.

5 L suspension...is something I would like some day.

Keep us updated as a few miles and tweaks occur

I too have gone down the 5L rear suspension route , you might see my car at various BHM events,

I completely agree that it has transformed the handling, especially in tricky situations. It feels so much more direct on the road and just goes around corners on the throttle a lot better. I am pleased that Bret and Keith were impressed , I got the impression that they were originally not really fans of the SSL front or rear mods, as as you ay their expertise is measured in decades of different Morgans, and both are trad +8 fans.

I'm a confirmed fan..

With the 5L fitted does the chassis and body twist and flex less?

I think it is fair to say that if the suspension is work in the best possible way not only are less shocks transmitted to the passengers but less strain is put on the chassis. In my opinion the answer to your question is that there will be less chassis flex but given all the parameters it is not possible to eliminate it entirely.

That’s about right Peter, the Panhard rod included in the kit will help reduce the flexing but the characteristics of the car are still there.

As this thread appears to be solely about the SSL 5 link after market kit, I thought it worth mentioning MMC's own as fitted to Aero Racing variants and latest Roadster.

Undeniably not as well engineered as the SSL version in its own right, it does benefit from not relying on any clamping to back axle, instead linking to dedicated brackets welded to back axle.



I wonder if the SSL clamping is indexed to the back axle in any way.

I have had the SSL kit for over 2 years now and it is definitely a big improvement - particularly in the handling area. I find it is a reasonable improvement in ride quality but if it was only for that I wouldn't bother - its the overall handling and ride improvement together that makes it very worthwhile. Mine was fitted by Williams in Bristol and they seem to have it set up perfectly - thanks chaps!

I upgraded to the 5 link suspension just 2 weeks after buying my Plus 4 last month. I had it in mind anyway, and had been thinking I’d leave it until the spring, but the roads around here make it just too uncomfortable!

It’s definitely more comfortable, and the handling feels more precise as well. Plus the old leaf springs were very squeaky!