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Auto Racing/MGB suspension redux

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Expert: - 1/22/2010


Question

green monster
Hey Dan,
I'm turning my daily driven mgb into a track day car.
I have installed a Nissan SR20DET engine (about 250 hp)and trans.
I want to do the build up of the front suspension using off the shelf mail order parts from companies like Speedway Motors and Jegs.
Would you bee willing to give me some advice? I live in Sarasota also.
Thanks,
Dan


Answer
Hi Dan:

I'll help where I can.  We'll have to know the weight of the front vs. the rear of the car, and usually it takes a few test days to get it close to right once we've made changes.

I have friends who have raced MGs and built them over the years. The smart thing you did was get rid of the BMC drive train.  My first race car was a Triumph TR-3 so I mostly saw MG's of the era in my mirrors.  But depending on how far you want to go. we can do wonders for it.   

I would start with converting the front to coil over springs and shocks, adding a front sway bar, or converting to a larger one. And finishing with camber adjustment hardware. Then we could consider adding a bar to the rear as well.

Speedway Motors has neat stuff, but not much for sports cars. Design Products and Ground Control are two that I have used with a LOT of satisfaction

So, catching me this weekend will be kinda iffy, going to Charlotte Co. Speedway for Saturday during the day, and then a club meeting that night. But my home phone is 941 926 3232 and I return my calls promptly. We could chat some Sunday if you wish.

Dan  

Dan Liddy

Expertise

Anything concerning race cars, 20 years competition experience, Senior Competition Driver Instructor , car builder, mechanic, welding, fabrication, tuning , engine modifications, set up, suspension design. Specializing in Datsun/Nissan products. Please submit questions about RACE CARS ONLY. No street cars, no video game scenarios Thank you.

Experience

I have been racing for 20 years, I have been the Central Florida SCCA Regional Championship points for 5 years running, and won the championship in my class 2 times. During my first start in the 60's I won many solo awards and the State Championship Drags. I serve as a senior instructor for SCCA, and have taught in Mercedes AMG events at Daytona, and Dodge Viper Days at Sebring International. I have been in the thick of the competition for all of my career. At one time or another I have driven race cars at speeds nearing 195 MPH. It's quite a ride !

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