Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

Greetings all, posting for a friend. A fellow long term owner decided to change out his lower ball joints for new (Rare Parts, purchased many moons ago). After he got done he noted the car sat on the drivers side about 3/4" taller than the passenger. Confused, he swapped the ball joints side to side, but that didn't change things so he eliminated them as being the cause. However, he swears it has changed (and he looks at his cars a lot) and I can't explain it, specifically because he did not disassemble the suspension in order to swap out the joints... he was able to do it with the springs, a-arms etc all still assembled. He has some form of comp spring in there... Mike Youngs maybe, but they are definitely not a cut spring or of questionable quality to his knowledge. I theorized that the spring had moved or become set in such a way as to change how it rides, but again he states they were not involved.

Are there any other determinants regarding ride height other than the Spring? He is aware of the rubber spring cushions that are in there, but again does not believe this would be the cause, nor would they be thick enough to change things. Of note, I do believe his engine may be out right now but I have yet to hear back from his regarding this. That could change things some... THANKS!
Greg

Is the replacement B joint the same length as the original? If it moves inward it would
Spring put in opposite of how it was ?
Didn't bolt it different ?
It's hard to view the upper spring seat , possible not turned correct

If he’s eliminated the springs, perhaps an A-Arm seized (or unseized) on one side when he took the weight off … or a collapsed shock or upper ball joint maybe? Not really too many things it could be.

I was thinking it would have been the spring not turned correctly and aligned in the seat... Been there, done that

It’s been my experience that often we don’t notice that’s something is “off” until we change something and then stand back and admire our work.

Even though he's not removed the spring, when mine was loose (to replace the joint) I've had the rubber cushion drop down maybe several inches (but it remains up in the pocket), where it is also very hard to see.---------------Then it got pinched when tightening up the assembly and fold over on itself (top of spring), without noticing. At first, I'd doubt that would cause 3/4" difference. However, with them motor out it could certainly be close. My .02

I would say “tuned for proper weight distribution with driver”. LOL

After painting my car a friend of mine asked me why the driver side fender flair was bigger than the passenger side. No wonder I has to cut an opening for the side light. Stuff happens!

Oh by the way, I have a pre '68 fender with a '69 marker hole for sale.

Thanks All for the input! I'll pass on the thoughts.