LWillmann

First, some background:

I have this 96 Formula that I love! I'm into stereo systems. I've got a nice system installed in my car, or at least I think it's nice.

Ever since I bought the car though, it's seemed to sit a little low.

And since I installed the stereo system with the box and subs in the trunk, it's gotten even lower in the back.

I know the car will sit down on the bump stops occasionally. With the speakerbox in the car, a look under the rear end will show there is about 1-1/2 inches between the bump stops and the axle tubes.

Last night, I went out and measured from from the ground to the uppermost portion of the fenderwell lip. I measured the car with everything in it that I normally carry in it.

When looking at my lower control arms, they run DOWNHILL to the body from the axle tubes, so I know the car is sitting lower than it should be.

I got measurements of 26-3/4 to 26-7/8 inches at all four corners.

I personally have NOT modified the suspension in any way since I bought the car. I have only added say 150 lbs, give or take a few to the weight of the rear end.

So, here's what I need:

If folks would be so kind as to make the same measurement that I did on their stock suspension car, I'd really appreciate it. I'd like to compare my measurements to stock setup cars. Although I am primarily interested in the Pontiacs, just in case there is difference in the fenderwell dimensions, Camaros are more than welcome here for comparison as well.

I do know that when parking my Formula beside a buddies LT1 Camaro, or my wife's V6 Camaro for that matter, there is a distinctly noticeable difference in ride height, both at the fenders and between the front jack pad and the ground.

Thanks in advance.

BitCypher

I know for sure my '96 TA has stock suspension because I'm the original owner. I'll do this for you after I get off work tonight and report back later this evening.

shoebox

The lower the car is to the ground, the less "uphill" the arms will look (axle housing>body). On a much lowered car the arms will go "downhill". That is why people buy LCA relocation brackets to restore the "uphill" (or even) angle.

LWillmann

I'm sorry, I meant to say downhill to the body and uphill to the axle tubes... I fixed it above... Thanks for bringing my goof to my attention!

shoebox

Then, nevermind.

LWillmann

ttt any one else have any insight or measurements?

BitCypher

Okay, sorry for the delay. It's been a busy few days before the weekend. But the weekend is here!! Here's the measurements on my stock-suspension '96 T/A, from the ground to the highest point on each fenderwell (measurement taken on a level concrete surface):

Front-end (driver/pass): 26 5/8 and 26 3/4
Rear-end (driver/pass): 27 5/8 and 27 3/4

Hope this is what you wanted...

LWillmann

Thanks BitCypher!

That means that the rear end of my car is about 1" lower than yours. But the front is about level... Interesting.

phrozen

there's a good chance they're probably just worn out. Or some dick-head was too cheap to buy lowering springs and just cut the originals. But these are all speculation, I know jack.