Correct Ride Height

[El Sol Infinito]

I know these cars are supposed to be riding low, but I wonder if maybe my back end isn't scraping the ground more often than it should.
Can anybody tell me on my '64 Convertible, what is the distance from say the center of the rear wheel hub to the top of the fender supposed to be? I'm going to give this measurement to my shop as an acceptable range when they redo my rear suspension.
Anyone that can help, thank you very much.
Bob

[Joe Van Datta]

Go to tbirdranch.com, you canfind the specs.

[gunnyjeep]

Originally Posted by El Sol Infinito

I know these cars are supposed to be riding low, but I wonder if maybe my back end isn't scraping the ground more often than it should.
Can anybody tell me on my '64 Convertible, what is the distance from say the center of the rear wheel hub to the top of the fender supposed to be? I'm going to give this measurement to my shop as an acceptable range when they redo my rear suspension.
Anyone that can help, thank you very much.
Bob

Hope this helps - it is for a 66 but should work for your 64 -

Ride Height for 1966

From Product information, 1966 Cars Technical Service Advance Information...
Wheelhouse opening method used for an initial evaluation. If these are out of specificaiton, the suspension method must be used. Before performing procedure, "curb loading" and tire inflation must be checked. 1) Full tank of gasoline, radiator filled and engine oil level full. 2) Spare tire, wheel, Jack and handle in place. 3) Front seats in rear position. 4) All other leading removed.

Wheel opening at highest horizontal point parellel to road or level surface. Push down on centre of front bumper and release. Measure height. Lift on Center of front bumper and release. Again measure height on both front sides. Do same for rear.

Riding height: Front - 27.66 inches
Rear - 22.72 inches - hardtop - ----------22.60 Convertible

Tire size - 8.15 x 15

Tolerance: Front +1.26, -.62 inches Rear +.58 - -.67 inches

Maximum side variation 1/2 to 3/4 Inches



but just in case here is for the 63

This is a simple method of measuring the ride height of your 61-63 Thunderbird.

Making sure you are on a level surface and the fuel level is topped off and your car has only it's original equipment on board such as jack and spare and not extra luggage etc., tires at proper pressure and size, rock it up and down by pushing on the front and rear bumpers. This will center the suspension.

Measure at the highest point of the front wheel opening on each fender , height should be very near 27".

Measure the rear by the same method and th height should be 20.5" .


Gunny