Daimler 2.5 V8

[trampintransit]

Hello folks.

My first post. I know there are guyd here well versed in Daimler V8's. I'm probably going to be readyto MOT my car ( A barn find, not been on the road for 15years or so, it's gonna be a bit 'Withnailesque' for 2012, hopefully getting full cosmetic attention next year ) BUT, couple of questions. What cah I do to improve the suspension set up without spending a fortune? and, how do I go about a LPG conversion?

[V8 FOU]

Decent shox, like Spax. Make sure all the front subframe mounts are ok, and the ball joints.
LPG is possible, but conversions to carb cars is a bit hit and miss. Try Tinley Tech.

[trampintransit]

Cheers, Tinley tech were very helpful. Doesn't seem that hard a job to do either....famous last words!

[v8250]

OP, have upgraded a number of V8 250's and there's a whole host of things that can be done within sensible budgets, without resorting to rose-joints all round. Hopefully the following will help;

1. Replace rubber bushes with Superflex http://www.superflex.co.uk/products.php?cat=207
2. Improve front spring ratings by 10-15%
3. Keep rear end standard - do not stiffen up back end - keep pliable
4. Repace rear end rubber bushes
5. Pay close attention to spring hanger plates and panhard rod mounting points
6. Add an extra 0.5deg toe-in at front
7. Really pay attention to rear suspension set-up to ensure all is 'square', then have front-end set up
pts 6&7 should be via a good four-wheel laser set up Co' who understand panhard rods
8. You may like to try Classic Koni dampers - have had very good experience with these
9. Do not listen to the MKII Jaguar chaps [no offence boys] ...they'll all be driving you down the near-circuit-racing MKII set-ups at big cost. Yes, the cars are near identical. HOWEVER, they all forget that the V8 does not carry the front end weight of the XK engine. Edward Turners V8 is super light by comparison...which is why V8 250's handle' far better than any standard MKII.
10. If you're planning to change rear springs, do check unsprung weight heights before fitting. There can be a big difference in 'true' spring rates between different suppliers.
11. Tyres also make big difference and running the 'right' tyre pressures.

Ref' LPG - Tinley Tech have a good reputation. You may like to look at toroidal tanks that could fit in the rear wheel well. No need to carry a spare wheel these days as can readily use tyrefoam cans to get out of trouble. Good luck...

PS any pics??

[HWKWallis]

Apologies for resurecting and older thread, but in chasing was of improving my V8 I wondered if you could expand on point 11.....tyre choice and pressures?

many thanks

Jim

[Strugs]

v8250 said:

OP, have upgraded a number of V8 250's and there's a whole host of things that can be done within sensible budgets, without resorting to rose-joints all round. Hopefully the following will help;

1. Replace rubber bushes with Superflex http://www.superflex.co.uk/products.php?cat=207
2. Improve front spring ratings by 10-15%
3. Keep rear end standard - do not stiffen up back end - keep pliable
4. Repace rear end rubber bushes
5. Pay close attention to spring hanger plates and panhard rod mounting points
6. Add an extra 0.5deg toe-in at front
7. Really pay attention to rear suspension set-up to ensure all is 'square', then have front-end set up
pts 6&7 should be via a good four-wheel laser set up Co' who understand panhard rods
8. You may like to try Classic Koni dampers - have had very good experience with these
9. Do not listen to the MKII Jaguar chaps [no offence boys] ...they'll all be driving you down the near-circuit-racing MKII set-ups at big cost. Yes, the cars are near identical. HOWEVER, they all forget that the V8 does not carry the front end weight of the XK engine. Edward Turners V8 is super light by comparison...which is why V8 250's handle' far better than any standard MKII.
10. If you're planning to change rear springs, do check unsprung weight heights before fitting. There can be a big difference in 'true' spring rates between different suppliers.
11. Tyres also make big difference and running the 'right' tyre pressures.

Ref' LPG - Tinley Tech have a good reputation. You may like to look at toroidal tanks that could fit in the rear wheel well. No need to carry a spare wheel these days as can readily use tyrefoam cans to get out of trouble. Good luck...

PS any pics??

Bit of a thready resurrection to say I've just sent you a message, V8250, as we have a poorly '66 V8 that I think would benefit from your experience!