Talk Morgan Forums Morgan Sports Cars Classic Morgans (pre-CX) 1939 DHC front suspension query

Can anyone help me with a query about the above mentioned car which is fitted with a Standard Special engine.

I'd like to know what the correct dimensions for the front coil springs should be. The existing ones are 6" long and 1 5/8" internal diameter (i.e. considerably smaller than the later cars). The existing springs can be fitted without being compressed. I'm not sure if this is correct or whether the springs have worn and should be longer so that they have to be compressed when fitted.

If new springs are needed, does anyone know of a source please ?

Hi Bob I have a 1938 series 1 not a drophead and with a climax engine ,but i presume that the suspension springs were the same. I have some spare ones i can measure but they are buried under stuff ill try and get at them tomorrow,as for a supplier of new springs ,Martin Wyatt midland secretary,may know as he has a series 1 and worked for a spring manufacturer,details are in miscellany,will get back to you duncan

Thanks Duncan,

PM sent

I think the standard engine is a lot heavier than the climax, don't know if this would affect the spring rates.

Bob I have managed to get at the springs I have 3 2 are the same ie 61/2" long i/d of 1 1/10 and o/d of 2 5/16 now these 2 I am sure came off an early car with rubber buffers instead of rebound springs.The 3rd spring is 6 1/8 in length with same i/d and o/d as the others.The one rebound spring I have is 2 5/8 long with an i/d of 1 3/16 and an o/d of 1 9/16. I can not believe that the standard engine is heavier,this climax is not the lighter fire pump one,but very very heavy,if you want to see the springs i live in west worcestershire,hope the above helps regards duncan

Hi Duncan.

Bob posted this request on my behalf because I was having trouble with my login. Thanks for the info. The existing springs that we have (which are too short) are 6" long with an i/d of 1 5/8" and o/d of 2 5/16. I reckon they ought to be at least 6 1/2 to 6 3/4" long.

Are you sure of your i/d ? If so, they must be made of very thick wire....

My understanding is that the standard engined DHC is 80lbs heavier than the normal 4-4. But my guess is that they used the same springs.

Best
Ambrose

Ambrose sorry i/d should have read 1 10/16. do you know of anybody with a 1960 high body plus 4 as im converting from a 4 seater to a 2 seater and need some measurements in order to make the new back frame regards duncan

Hi Duncan, I have a 1960 'bustleback' style 2 seater plus 4 'project' car if it helps. I also have a 60's plus four factory body in store but can't remember if it's highline or lowline. What measurements were you looking for ?

Hello Ambrose what is a bustleback is the back on an interim model ,if you let me have your e-mail I can send you a picture of the rear end that I need measurements for, thanks duncan

Hi Duncan. try me at alangleypoole@hotmail.com