Help! Somethings Not Right With Front Suspension

[Norm B]

Got my coil overs from Whitby today and installed the front suspension. The setup I have is SN95 spindles and lower control arms. 1987 power steering rack with rack extenders installed. When I installed the rack I noticed the inner tie rods came real close to the vertical frame at the end of the X frame and the boots are in contact with it all the time. When I turn the steering the inner tie rod contacts the coil spring just before reaching lock. This is all at full droop of course.

I have three questions. Is the rack supposed that far back? I'm using the factory inserts and kit supplied hardware and don't think I've got it set up wrong.
Are the coil overs supposed to be vertical? As installed, mine lean towards the rear of the chassis at the top by about 1 inch. I am wondering if I drilled the holes for the lower shock mounts in the correct position in the lower control arms. I think I can get enough clearance by changing the spacers on the bottom shock mount. Does anyone think that's a bad idea?

Norm

[Mark Dougherty]

norm
yes the frame sets the rack that far back.
the shocks are supposed to lean towards the back at the top.
nothing should hit the shocks in its travel so move the bottom mounts.
later
markd

[Norm B]

Thanks Mark
Went through everything again. Put one of my wheels on and ran the suspension through its range of motion. Turns out I'll have interference between the tires and F panel long before the tie rod and spring get involved. Currently shopping for steering rack limiters.

Norm

[CraigS]

The rack is quite close to the upright but be sure any spacer washers are at the rear side of the rack to move it forward as far as possible.Breeze has soild rack bushings that have a shoulder on one end. The shoulder would be to the rear.

http://www.breezeautomotive.com/details.php?prod_id=720&cat_id=12

I wouldn't worry about tires hitting the 'f' panel. It will only do it at full lock, which implies parking lot speed. The tread hits a smooth piece of aluminum which flexes somewhat so there is never any damage and you might need that extra tight turn.

[Norm B]

Thanks Craig. I have some other stuff to order from Breeze and will add those to the list.

Norm

[Norm B]

Got my order from Breeze and installed the steering rack bushings. Solved the issue and had the added benefit of lowering and centering the rack. Thanks for the replies.

Norm

[riptide motorsport]

I just love a happy ending!!!:cool: