Handling capabilities of first gens?

[JLM]

I'm about ready to start purchasing suspension components for my 1969 firebird. Currently I'm looking at doing GW sub-frames and half height solid body mounts, Hotchkis TVS for big blocks, Upper UCA's and the G-Mod. With this type of setup on a good set of tires what type of handling will I be looking at.

Can I expect it to handle as well as my stock suspensioned Cobra? Better?

Also what other suspension goodies should I be looking at to get more cornering capability. My original plan was to make more of a drag ready setup with a pro-touring "look" but in the past couple years I've gotten out of drag racings and more into open track style events with my mustangs.

[Tom Welch]

I would suggest contacting Guldstrand Performance. They have a wealth of info on the mods you are looking at and they were among the first to do them. I have a 67 Firebird that will run a 428 Poncho and a 700r4, for suspension in front I have decided to use the stock arms, do the Guldstrand mod, shorter springs, solid, stock height body mounts and poly bushings. Similar mods done to my 78 T/A did wonders for handling. I dont have enough confidence in the after market control arms to lay out the money that they sell for. Especially since there is no proven improvement in performance. I dont knock these manufacturers at all but I am skeptical, and I have a good set of arms already. I believe that wheels and tires will provide noticeable gains in handling performance especially when combined with adequate swaybars and shocks.

[David Pozzi]

What is the front and rear weight of your car?

[JLM]

What is the front and rear weight of your car?

I haven't a clue. It has a 455 up front without AC. It will be running a fiberglass hood rather than the stock steel piece.

The rear-end is factory stock.

I'll hve to get it all back together before I can weight it and get an accurate figure.

The 455 does have #62 iron heads on it with an aluminum intake manifold so I'm sure it's quite heavy.

I'm rethinking my stance on going with aftermarket UCA's. Liek some I'm not completely convinced of the benefit they provide other than the cool factor.