Ridetech OUT, 4 link Watts-link in.

[Tweak]

I think it's really cool that you're designing your own rear suspension, but I can't help but notice that your design is converging into something that looks a lot like this: https://www.detroitspeed.com/rear-su...d-041703-group



Have you considered the above kit? It's proven and regarded as one of the best in the business. In my mind, DSE is the way to go if you want a 4 link and you're comfortable cutting up your car. I see no reason to reinvent the wheel unless you're just doing it for fun. You seem to prefer a watts link, which you could add to the DSE kit, but I'm not convinced it's worth the additional weight, space, and complexity for this application.

As you've noticed, ridetech had to make a few compromises to make their kit bolt-in. I think they did a great job under those constraints, and it was good business to differentiate their product.

Hey
Yes I think your right, but I'm pretty keen to do this myself. The more I understand how it works, the more I can respond to change.
Once I can understand the engineering principles, i think it will resole itself.
As far as having more weight in the rear, probably a good thing with a first gen.
Watts are definitely the best for keeping the axle centered through varied articulation and movement, and not complex with the added bonus of easily being able to change roll centre height in the rear.
Its all new to me and I love learning new stuff.

Cheers for your input.

[stab6902]

Hey
Yes I think your right, but I'm pretty keen to do this myself. The more I understand how it works, the more I can respond to change.
Once I can understand the engineering principles, i think it will resole itself.
As far as having more weight in the rear, probably a good thing with a first gen.
Watts are definitely the best for keeping the axle centered through varied articulation and movement, and not complex with the added bonus of easily being able to change roll centre height in the rear.
Its all new to me and I love learning new stuff.

Cheers for your input.

Fair enough - there are pros and cons to each. Roll center height can also be adjusted with a panhard bar - whether it's easier or harder than a watts link depends on the individual setup I suppose.

Here's some good reading on the age old watts link vs. panhard bar debate:
http://www.rhoadescamaro.com/build/?m=201102
http://www.rhoadescamaro.com/build/?cat=12