Wheel size, suspension, geo set up etc.

[so called]

GT TVR said:

RM75 said:

I'm not sure that's 100% right. While I've read that the original suspension geometry was designed around 16" wheels, I don't think there is that much difference in reality.

Even a Mk2 with aftermarket (Nitron) suspension will be left behind on a bumpy road by a lot of many more lowly cars. And as long as geometry is correct and nothing is broken or completely worn out on a Mk1, they are not the "widow makers" that some seem to think.

I don't agree.
A MK2 with Nitrons and Eibach springs and the right set up is VERY good, on par with a Sag. It handles bumpy B roads very well. (Standard suspension is way too hard and makes it jump on anything but smooth roads. Also not very stable at high speeds).

So if you can, go for a MK2, preferrable an S: better built, better handling, more reliable engine (but have a leakage test done and get warranty).

Can fully recommend HHC and they have a few nice ones for sale:
http://www.tvr-hhc.co.uk/UsedCars/view/496987
http://www.tvr-hhc.co.uk/UsedCars/view/496985

Edited by GT TVR on Sunday 30th January 08:18

My Mk1 with 16" had terrible handling. (also resembled a tractor IMO).


After new suspension, geo setup and new 18" SP12's the car was briliant. (also looked far betterIMO).


Crashed Mk1, so much for good handling. (suspect inadequate driver abilities IMO).


Bought a Tuscan Convertible. Handling was bad but different to the bad era of my Mk1.


After new suspension, geo setup and new 18" SP12's the car is still not right.


Dont know what to do next other than start again with new suspension, geo set up etc. Maybe the 12mm spacers will help ?
Any and all advice will be gratefully received.

Thanks,
Tony.

Edited by so called on Sunday 30th January 16:50

Edited by so called on Sunday 30th January 16:54

[GT TVR]

• Try setting the dampers (a lot) softer so it actually absorbs the bumps instead of jumping over them.
• Use Derek's geo settings:

Front:
1mm Toe in (0.5mm per side)
0.5 - 0.75 degrees negative camber (I'm running -1)

Rear:
3mm toe in
1.4 degrees negative camber (I'm running close to -2)

• Increase the castor at the front to max.

• Put 225 tyres on the front.

• Put on Toyo R1R's.

If all this doesn't help, I wouldn't know really, maybe something mechanically wrong with the suspension/steering?

[so called]

Hi GT TVR thanks for these settings. I'll check things again.

I have stiffened the rear end up as it kept ottoming out.
Actually the tyre contacts the body.
Maybe neeed to lift the rear end and then soften a bit.

I was on the Autobahn last November and following a Merc CSL at about 125mph and could hardly keep in lane on a dipping left hand curve. A bit scary to say the least so got to get it sorted.

PS, Derek did my Mk1 so your info is gratefully received.

Thanks,
Tony.

[fredd1e]

TVR significantly uprated the rear spring rate with the tuscan 2 "S" setup. Its nearly double what the original tuscan Mk1 Speed6 setup was ( which is probably same as non S Mk2 tuscans) so this might be worth checking out..
I'd also check to see if its running Harvey Baileys or Bilstien dampers .. PS the Tuscan 2 "S" springs are blue in colour so an easy spot fitment.

[dvs_dave]

The car should generally have a slight nose down attitude.

Having the back end too low will not only cause it to ground out lots but will play hell with high speed stability.

Don't just stiffen the dampers as this will just make the back end skittish and ruin the ride.

[so called]

fredd1e said:

TVR significantly uprated the rear spring rate with the tuscan 2 "S" setup. Its nearly double what the original tuscan Mk1 Speed6 setup was ( which is probably same as non S Mk2 tuscans) so this might be worth checking out..
I'd also check to see if its running Harvey Baileys or Bilstien dampers .. PS the Tuscan 2 "S" springs are blue in colour so an easy spot fitment.

Thats interesting.
I've got gaz golds but I dont know what the springs are. This info along with GT TVR gives me something to look into.

Thanks,
Tony.

[so called]

dvs_dave said:

The car should generally have a slight nose down attitude.

Having the back end too low will not only cause it to ground out lots but will play hell with high speed stability.

Don't just stiffen the dampers as this will just make the back end skittish and ruin the ride.

I think the back is a little too low although it was set higher than the front.
Derek was in the workshop and made some adjustments for me as a favour but your description sounds only too familiar.

Thanks again,
Tony.