Hi all -

I'm slowly working through the '84 T/A and with the engine/transmission/brakes all in good shape, I'm now looking at the suspension & steering... I've got a clunking in the front end when I turn the wheel, a small dead spot, and I'm pretty sure at least the rear shocks are shot. I'm planning on going through it all pretty thoroughly, but I ain't made of money.

I've read a bunch of threads on the front end but haven't seen much info on the rear end. Anything I need to look at back there other than shocks? Any recommendations on brand/model? I'm not looking at lowering the car or replacing springs at this point - I'm thinking shocks/struts/bushings & various steering member components.

Also, can anyone point me to an exploded diagram of the front end? I'm just not familiar enough with these cars to order parts intelligently, and I'd like to see what part goes where as I'm shopping for them. I realize I could just order one of the various front end kits - and may end up doing that - but I'd still like to know what I'm doing in advance...

Thanks!

 

Go to suspension 101 in the stickies- it'll help you with the front end. On the rear, if your just replacing stock, you'll be looking at lower control arm, pan hard bar, and sway bar bushings most likely. Then shocks. Might want to look into torque arm bushing as well. What you are planning to do with the car? Are you just wanting some replacement shocks or are you looking for an improvement in performance.

 

At this point I'm not doing anything performance related. I'm not at all against spending a little extra on quality parts - especially ones that are actual improvements - but the car is strictly a commuter for the foreseeable future, so spending real money on go-fast bits would be a waste.

 

Jeez - I have no idea how I missed that... thanks.

I'll jack the car up and see what's worn.

Pretty sure front struts & strut bearings are part of this repair, too. I enjoy spending $800 on a $400 car. Heh.

 

Oh, don't feel bad. I've spent about $7000 on a $3400 car.
I'd go with KYBs, then. A better quality part than the Monroes, etc, but not alot of money. In some cases, polyurathane bushings are less money than rubber bushings, so don't be afraid to price check both.

 

We carry quite a few front end parts,and also a whole front end rebuild kit.If you have any questions,just give me a shout.

Pontiac Suspension Parts

 

Oh, I don't. I like old cars because I like old cars, not because I'm cheap. I've really owned nothing but 20 year old cars most of my life, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Well - not entirely - I bought an '07 CTS-V last year. It's been an odd change of pace.

 

Plus your saving money and recycling at the same time. I love older cars too.