I am planning to mount 14" SAW coil-over shocks on my front full-width 44. My question is what is the best way to space the heim jointed ends, to keep them from hitting the mounts. Should I just use washers, or is there something better...like misalignment bushings. What exactly do they do anyways? Washers would seem to bind the heim joint and not let it pivot in all directions.

Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Dean

You need a spacer, the heim is actually recessed into the shock a little bit...you need a spacer to allow for misalignment too. I use spacers from lowe's, they used to only carry spacers that had a split in them but now they have some that are solid. I think they are 1 and 1/2 long, I cut them in half and use one on either side of the rod end.

Good luck,
CJ

The best way to space your heim to allow full movement is to get a piece of tubing with an ID that is the same as the mounting bolt. Use two short pieces to space the heim between the mounts. Weld one space to the mounting tab and let the other float. This method works really well.

Thanks guys,

Exactly what I was looking for!

Dean

Ape, are your shocks 2" or 2.5"?

2". I don't have the springs yet, but plan on running a triple rate setup (i.e. 1 4-5" coil and 2 longer ones) probably in the 400-250-80 range.

Dean

I tried some tapered misalignment bushings and they just didn't work because the "heim" is recessed in the ends too much. Get the 1/2" ID steel tube (not that crappy cheap thin stuff from Kmart) and cut 2 peices, maybe 3/4 to 1" long and use them. Also, don't forget to position the eyes of the shocks correctly to follow the movement of the axle!

Squash

I use steel hydraulic line for spacers...works good

Sway-A-Way is supposed to be changing the 2" design to use the bearings from the 2.5" shocks which use a missalignment bushing.

OK,

One last question,

I bought my coil-overs in "used - but rebuilt condition".
My questions is:
Is there a place where I can find a owner's manual or routine maintainence schedule for the SAW shocks, plus the settings that the shocks need to be set?
Also, is there a special tool to adjust the metal rings (located on the threaded body), or can I use a similar tool?

Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Dean