1965 wagon suspension

[goat273]

Have got KYB gas adjust on the front end and the rest is all original equipment.
Looking for a better handling ride,the rear squeaks like a mf'er and I will need to replace the leaf shackle bushings. I need advice as to what and where to get parts for a very smooth and stable ride. Is it torsion bars?sway bars? Rear and front?

 

[C130 Chief]

If by original equipment, you mean that all the bushings and joints are original, start there. A worn and sloppy suspension will not only drive like crap, it's dangerous. You may be satisfied by just rebuilding what you have, you may not. But I cant stress enough that if the entire suspension, front and rear is not in tip-top shape you'll never get the car to drive well. Don't forget the often overlooked front pivot bushing on your leaf springs.

The next upgrade would be shocks, KYB are a massive improvement but valved a bit aggressively (some would say harsh), Bilsteins are far better yet, but spendy. In any event they should be matched front and rear. Sway bars will make a huge difference, as will increasing front torsion bar size. Keep in mind that increasing spring stiffness will make the ride more "secure" but at the expense of "smooth".

It would help to know a bit more about your setup, and what your goals are. What engine? power steering? a/c? brakes? tires/wheels? Whats your budget? What type of driving?

 

[Rocky65]

I went through this with my '66 Valiant... Unless you want to do autocross stay away from the 1" torsion bars. I will be taking mine out soon but I am going a different direction with the car anyway. If you want to drive it regularly don't put anything heavier than a stock 340 bar in there, IMHO. And of course like C130 said start with ALL of the bushings... You will be amazed at the difference just fixing all the worn out stuff will do, good luck

 

[Hell_Fish]

I used .89 t-bars in my 65 which I think are big block. As said before, you have to look at everything as a package.

 

[Moparhead64]

Stay away from the rubber bushings and get the polygraphite . Believe me there is a difference in handling and longevity of the bushings !!