PDA

View Full Version : BMR Torque Arm Installed on my 73 Firebird



1973Firebird01
06-10-2011, 06:54 AM
I know that this is a little late but here it goes. After 9 months I finally got to drive the car this past Friday.
Few things first, the old driveshaft was short to begin with(fixed). I also waited to get my VWW V40s (17x11 4.75b/s 335/35/17s) mounted and on. The moment I set the car down the back height was PERFECT! I set the dbl adj shock at a middle setting...it's a little rough on some of the rougher roads here but that is fine with me. This setup is very tight and responsive...it has shown the deseprate need to update the front suspension. Take off; sqats, plants the tires, lifts the front evenly, and shoots straight. Curvy roads; the rear sticks like glue, no lateral movement, unbeliveable! The back feels tighter than my 4th gen & that's settup for auto-x.
I've had NO clearence problems with the torque arm but the exhaust (3in into flowmasters dumps at the axle) and headers are a different story. To be fair, driving around I have yet to bottom out but my driveway is a different story(the rear fenders are at 27.5 inches high, fronts @ 26in.). If there has been one single most improvement to the car over the past 15 years of this project this is it! GREAT job BMR!
As for installation this was the easiest that I've done to date, instructions were spot on and everything fit without modification. I asked Chad at Fletcher Customs to order it with the housing narrowed 3in on each side, to fit the wide tires. On mine I could not run anymore than 4.75 back spacing or it'd hit the lower control arms.
These are the pics I took before driving it for the first time since the installation, the back (ride height) has settled since and height is PERFECT!! Pics do not do it justice.
Thanks to Chad and BMR!
Val
Hope to have the V40s with 275/40/17s ordered next week.
47366473744736747368473694737047371473754737347372
https://www.pro-touring.com/images/misc/pencil.png

John Wright
06-10-2011, 07:16 AM
Pics are great, but squat down with the camera on one knee and shoot back up under the car...


...other than that, this is a great piece of advertising for them.

1973Firebird01
06-10-2011, 07:26 AM
Thanks!
I'll get a couple more this evening and post them up.

critter
06-10-2011, 07:31 AM
Did you just do the torque arm or the entire suspension setup they offer? What rear end is in the car?

John Wright
06-10-2011, 07:46 AM
critter...you can order just the torque arm, or get the rear complete (axle, diff, shocks, torque arm, all hardware...etc)


nevermind me...I read too fast and mis-understood your question.

1973Firebird01
06-10-2011, 07:49 AM
I did the entire setup to include Strange 9in with back brace in hammertone black. I welded the cradle(in the 2nd pic) to the frame since I'd already put DSE minitubs in it. Here's some more pics when I did the install.

473804738147382473834738447385473864738747388

John Wright
06-10-2011, 07:53 AM
Looks like it comes with some room for adjustments(lots of holes for the watts)...good to know.

1973Firebird01
06-10-2011, 08:16 AM
As you see it in the pics is the way it is right now, I was debating on moving the coilovers down one more hole....not sure if it'll make any difference beside make them more noticable.

LeighP
06-10-2011, 08:29 AM
Later, when my car is finished and the budget allows, I want to do this mod.....very impressive.

1973Firebird01
06-10-2011, 08:45 AM
Leigh, I was well worth the $$, I went for the 9in since I have a 9in Moser in my 4th gen. I opted for the back brace also because it looked like the mounting plate for the watts link would be alot stronger. It was truley a night and day difference from the leafs to this.
The install was VERY easy, it was so easy I kept rereading the instructions because I thought I was forgetting something.

critter
06-10-2011, 10:54 AM
I wonder why they say only 70-73 for this product. I have a 74. :(

Nothingface5384
06-10-2011, 01:24 PM
I wonder why they say only 70-73 for this product. I have a 74. :(

they sell it for the later years two.. the difference were body mount locations

LeighP
06-11-2011, 05:02 AM
Chris,
74 should be the same as 70-73...the rear body mount locations changed for the 75 model when they redesigned the floor for the cat converter.
I'd give them a call and have a chat about it.....

I agree, the $ value really seems there with this mod.

1red68
06-11-2011, 05:12 AM
this mod is so on my list of things to do. I'm :drool:

srh3trinity
06-12-2011, 02:30 PM
Thanks for putting some pics up. This setup has been high on my list since it cam out. I have a 74 and unless sombody comes out with something that is both better an cheaper, I will have a hard time saying no to this. It would be nice to have the exhaust out the back though, but I don't think that will be a deal breaker for me.

1973Firebird01
06-13-2011, 04:43 AM
srh3trinity, from what I understand BMR has a full exhaust on their 2nd gen (with this setup) https://www.pro-touring.com/showthread.php?71169-BMR-torque-arm-question&highlight=bmr+torque+arm This thread the BMR tech talks about the exhaust. Mine has always dumped at the rear axle. I will say that this was the best money I've spent, ease of installation, function, fit, and most important to me the drivability. Chad at Fletcher Customs really took care of me!

fletcherscustoms
06-13-2011, 04:56 AM
Nice to see that thing finally under the car, and thanks for the kind words. This system is by far the best out there for the money. Works great from my daily driven beat on weekly camaro, to a full blown road race car I was happy to setup in Europe. This system coupled with the STrange 9" housing gives a bullet proof handling on rails car!!!

To hit the question of 70-73 and later year. The later years is now released basically the mount for torque arm is little further back due to the body mount design on the later cars, therefor every part is the same but the arm itself is a few inches shorter.

As far as exhaust clearance over the axle with 2.5" is easily doable!! 3" is possible, but will take some work. My car is dumped in front of the rear, as is TY's bird. Ty's car is getting redone in a couple of months to go all the way back. Mine I could care less, its "beater"

BMR Tech
06-13-2011, 02:01 PM
It's great to see another car come together! We strive to make this the end all, be all kit when it comes to functionality, ease of installation, and price. It's posts like yours that make us feel like we know what we are doing! :twothumbs.

It is definitely possible to get 2.5" tubes up and over the axle and out the back. I have done it on two different cars and there was room to spare. It is tight but I am 95% sure it can be done with tight 3" exhaust elbows. Just like everybody's projects, mine has been dragging on forever but I plan to run 3" when I get to that point...

AvatarofAwesome
06-13-2011, 05:26 PM
Brett, I am also seriously considering this for my build. My question is, how much room does this leave for mufflers. I know it's not the usual question you get, but I want to try and use some Corsa mufflers, and they're probably going to be stock size or close to it.

Thanks,
Adam

fletcherscustoms
06-14-2011, 04:16 AM
Mufflers are not really the problem as they will mount under the rear seat area. The issue with the kit is getting the pipes up and over the rearend. Its easily accomplished but takes time.

1973Firebird01
06-14-2011, 07:13 AM
Brett & Chad, thanks again for all your hard work and patience with me and my questions. I'm going to be starting the frontend rebuild in the next 2 weeks, oncethat's all together I'll give more feedback on the setup.

fletcherscustoms
06-14-2011, 07:17 AM
My pleasure!!!!

srh3trinity
06-14-2011, 06:43 PM
2.5's over the axle would be fine with me.

a73formula
06-15-2011, 11:16 AM
damnit another hood like mine, and yours is on the road first. Very nice bird looks awesome.

1973Firebird01
06-16-2011, 04:41 AM
a73formula, Thank you! I had the wild idea of the 6in cowl and did it back in 1999. This is the first time that I've ever posted pics of the car since I pulled it out of a junkyard in Barstow California back in 1996. I'm going to take the 6in cowl off when the LS motor goes in and put a 3in on it so it's not as tall.

BMR Tech
06-17-2011, 01:23 PM
No problem at all. We look forward to more feedback as you dial the car in!

BMR Sales
11-24-2011, 07:57 AM
Hey Val wanted to check in with you to see if you had a chance to get me a few ground clearance pics for other members yet?

Anyway, I wanted to wish you Happy Thanksgiving and thanks again for your service to us all!

Probird
11-27-2011, 11:05 AM
What about a torque arm for the 68-74 nova, I talked to you about eight months ago and it was in the works. Any updates!

digger1978
11-28-2011, 11:05 AM
Can you use a cross-over on the exhaust with this kit? I can't find any pictures with exhaust on this kit.

BMR Sales
12-06-2011, 10:01 AM
What about a torque arm for the 68-74 nova, I talked to you about eight months ago and it was in the works. Any updates!


We are now offering the kits for the X-body, but have not added the kit to the site. What year is your car and what rear do you have?




Can you use a cross-over on the exhaust with this kit? I can't find any pictures with exhaust on this kit.


Unfortunately there is no easy way to run a cross-over or x-pipe, but im sure it can be done.

Probird
12-06-2011, 07:24 PM
It's a 1970 and it has a 12 bolt. All I need is the torque arm, I already have the coilovers, trailing arms and panhard bar. The car currently has a 3-link but I would really like to have a torque arm instead.

BMR Sales
12-07-2011, 10:28 AM
It's a 1970 and it has a 12 bolt. All I need is the torque arm, I already have the coilovers, trailing arms and panhard bar. The car currently has a 3-link but I would really like to have a torque arm instead.


We sell the Torque Arm assembly seperately for $1199+shipping. Although we have not launch the X-Body stuff on our site here is a link to the 1st Gen F-Body Torque Arm for details:

http://www.bmrsuspension.com/index.cfm?page=products&productid=233

1973Firebird01
01-04-2012, 04:30 PM
Gentlemen,
Good evening. I apologize for not posting sooner but my job keeps me busy and away from some of the finer things in life. I used a pepsi can to help give a decent height comparison. As you'll see the exhaust is lower than the torque arm itself. As I looked at the pics I noticed that I need to tighten one of the watts link jam nuts. I'll be in the process of converting to an LS2 w/6 speed this winter so alot will change. Once again I apologize for taking so long to get these posted.
Val
53364533655336653367533685336953370

BMR Sales
01-26-2012, 01:08 PM
Once again I apologize for taking so long to get these posted.
Val


Thanks for posting the pics Val!

srh3trinity
01-26-2012, 01:40 PM
What size tires? Mini tubbed? Thanks for getting some pics up.

amcya
02-03-2012, 07:02 PM
Bmr

BMR Sales
02-06-2012, 09:28 AM
What size tires? Mini tubbed? Thanks for getting some pics up.


Here is some info from the 1st post about the car.....



I know that this is a little late but here it goes. After 9 months I finally got to drive the car this past Friday.
Few things first, the old driveshaft was short to begin with(fixed). I also waited to get my VWW V40s (17x11 4.75b/s 335/35/17s) mounted and on. The moment I set the car down the back height was PERFECT! I set the dbl adj shock at a middle setting...it's a little rough on some of the rougher roads here but that is fine with me. This setup is very tight and responsive...it has shown the deseprate need to update the front suspension. Take off; sqats, plants the tires, lifts the front evenly, and shoots straight. Curvy roads; the rear sticks like glue, no lateral movement, unbeliveable! The back feels tighter than my 4th gen & that's settup for auto-x.
I've had NO clearence problems with the torque arm but the exhaust (3in into flowmasters dumps at the axle) and headers are a different story. To be fair, driving around I have yet to bottom out but my driveway is a different story(the rear fenders are at 27.5 inches high, fronts @ 26in.). If there has been one single most improvement to the car over the past 15 years of this project this is it! GREAT job BMR!
As for installation this was the easiest that I've done to date, instructions were spot on and everything fit without modification. I asked Chad at Fletcher Customs to order it with the housing narrowed 3in on each side, to fit the wide tires. On mine I could not run anymore than 4.75 back spacing or it'd hit the lower control arms.
These are the pics I took before driving it for the first time since the installation, the back (ride height) has settled since and height is PERFECT!! Pics do not do it justice.
Thanks to Chad and BMR!
Val
Hope to have the V40s with 275/40/17s ordered next week.







Bmr

Not sure about this post, but yes the kit is ours (BMR)

BMR Sales
06-20-2012, 07:37 AM
Hey Val do you have any more pictures of the Torque Arm? We are going to post some up on our Facebook page soon!


https://www.pro-touring.com/showthread.php?90606-BMR-is-looking-for-pics-of-our-parts-installed&p=915684#post915684

1973Firebird01
07-10-2012, 03:57 AM
Rich,
Haven't been on here in awhile but I'll post some pics. Finally got the LS1 w/6speed in it and broke in. All I can say is WOW what a difference that made getting all the weight off the nose. I really notice the rear suspension working now squat and lift, rear doesn't have any lateral movement...it's planted!!

BMR Sales
07-10-2012, 07:42 AM
Rich,
Haven't been on here in awhile but I'll post some pics. Finally got the LS1 w/6speed in it and broke in. All I can say is WOW what a difference that made getting all the weight off the nose. I really notice the rear suspension working now squat and lift, rear doesn't have any lateral movement...it's planted!!


Thats great news Val...... make sure you send in some pics of the new motor too!

BMR Sales
09-28-2012, 08:37 AM
Hey Val...... just wondering if you have got the car back on the road yet?

Flying Bandit
12-10-2012, 07:15 PM
...

BMR Sales
12-11-2012, 07:17 AM
What is different on my 1978 TA that won't work with this setup?



We offer a kit for any and all 70-81 Camaros and Firebirds GM 10 & 12 bolt rear differentials or a kit that includes a new Strange Engineering Ford 9" housing like Val has on his car.

What are you planning for your car?

LeighP
12-11-2012, 07:22 PM
Just a question on the Torque Arm kit....will the cage supporting the watts link clear an alloy bearing support cover for the 10 bolt?

BMR Sales
12-12-2012, 09:35 AM
Leigh,



There is approximately 3" between the tubes and the mounting plate. Here are a couple of pictures of customer's covers:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/JEFFPICS035_zps913dce58-1.jpg



https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/12BOLT-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/HuggerOrangerearview-1.jpg

1973Firebird01
12-18-2012, 08:00 AM
Rich,
Sorry I didn't get back here sooner, works has kept me away. Yes the car is back on the road!! I finally got the LS1 w/6 speed and 4.30 rear gear. I've put 4000 miles on it and drive it at every possible opportunity. No track time yet due to other comitments but there is always this spring. I still have to play with the shock settings to soften up the launch, it is just incredible how the car reacts from the factory setup. The rear stays planted no matter if it's in the corners or straights. I've had ZERO issues with the entire setup, I'm EXTREMELY HAPPY with it. I hope to get some auto-x & road course time this spring. I still have to finish out the front suspension, after the deer hit it all my funds have been spent fixing that mess:crying:

BMR Sales
12-18-2012, 08:30 AM
That is GREAT news Val, I'm glad to hear that she is back in action now. How is the LS motor running so far? We need pics of the engine bay now.

1973Firebird01
12-18-2012, 10:24 AM
68870
Rich,
Teaser pic. The motor is flawless, it's a BLAST to drive. The TSP magic stick v3 cam (few other goodies) and the gears make for some big smiles. It'll blow the 335/35/17s off it in 1st and 2nd, I'm hoping that adjusting the coilovers will help some of that. I know it's a steep gear but I've never been one to follow the leader with a certain gear ratio. I'll try and get the engine pics up tonight.

1973Firebird01
12-18-2012, 04:22 PM
As promised somemore pics, this was the car back in 1998
68883

and now...what a difference
68884
slowly coming together
6888568886
nasty worn out hood hindges!
68887
One of my favorites places to be in, under, or driving one of my babies!
68888

durtyburd71
01-04-2013, 02:04 PM
Super sweet ride.. in the process of a 71 firebird project as well. Is that a second gen camaro rear spoiler? ,if so did u have to modify it ?,looking for a subtle lookin rear spoiler ,not to big.. the size of yours looks great.. thanks

BMR Sales
01-17-2013, 11:38 AM
My favorite pic so far.... now we just got to get a set of our Arms on it to make it perfect! Keep the pics coming and if you can shoot a video of the car in action...that would be :cool:




68887

VCT-TA
01-18-2013, 06:21 AM
Val
I like the way you routed the hydroboost hoses. How do you get the windshield wipers to work with the motor mounted under the fender like that?

Dan

BMR Sales
05-09-2013, 12:22 PM
Hey Val.... I've had a few customers asking about your car. Any updates???

BMR Sales
06-04-2013, 01:43 PM
The guys at V8TV recently shot a great install and results video of our kit on a customers 71 Firebird:



https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s1103.photobucket.com/user/BMR-Suspension/media/945611_10151600261015923_1952179958_n_zpsdf9b02f1. jpg.html)



CHECK OUT THE VIDEO HERE!



http://youtu.be/NRKGqDRSLgc

thor70
06-10-2013, 11:49 AM
Now that I have had some extended seat time in my Formula that Rich posted a link to from V8TV. I thought I would give my impression of the BMR torque arm.
First WOW! Going from a leaf spring to the torque arm made the car feel like a brand new car. It turns like it is on rails. I have some back country roads that I like driving as they have some twists in them. I am pretty familiar with the roads and know how fast and can take some corners. Well the first time I took that corner I went through and kept the accelerator pressed. I did not have to lift off the petal and I was through the corner. The car was flat and very responsive. I can't wait to find some local road course events or auto-x events and take my car to them. This was the 2nd best thing I have done to my car. The 1st being putting in the TKO600. Doing 70mph on the freeway and having your engine running at 4000rpm is not fun.

opnwide
06-17-2013, 07:27 PM
I love those 335 Kumhos:) They're hard to get right now. I hope they don't stop making them.

Beautiful engine. Is it possible to remote mount those coil packs to show off that color?

My DSE leaf spring setup has a bit too much "wallow" for me. I think I'm going to upgrade rear sway bar from 5/8" to 1" to see if it makes a difference before I drop any more coin on mine.

BMR Sales
06-26-2013, 06:18 AM
Now that I have had some extended seat time in my Formula that Rich posted a link to from V8TV. I thought I would give my impression of the BMR torque arm.
First WOW! Going from a leaf spring to the torque arm made the car feel like a brand new car. It turns like it is on rails. I have some back country roads that I like driving as they have some twists in them. I am pretty familiar with the roads and know how fast and can take some corners. Well the first time I took that corner I went through and kept the accelerator pressed. I did not have to lift off the petal and I was through the corner. The car was flat and very responsive. I can't wait to find some local road course events or auto-x events and take my car to them. This was the 2nd best thing I have done to my car. The 1st being putting in the TKO600. Doing 70mph on the freeway and having your engine running at 4000rpm is not fun.

Pics Scott!!! Glad to hear that you are enjoying the car now!





I love those 335 Kumhos:) They're hard to get right now. I hope they don't stop making them.

Beautiful engine. Is it possible to remote mount those coil packs to show off that color?

My DSE leaf spring setup has a bit too much "wallow" for me. I think I'm going to upgrade rear sway bar from 5/8" to 1" to see if it makes a difference before I drop any more coin on mine.

Greg,

Did you find a WS6 rear bar yet? I think they were the larger diameter.