converting torsion bar suspension with springs

[qikteg]

I'm looking at undertaking a project which would remove my crappy torsion bar suspension and replace it with normal coil spring suspension. (i've elected the DA9 integra, purely because its the closest relative to the DA3. alternatively, i would choose the ED civic)

for such a conversion, i imagine i'll need the following from the donor vehicle:

- springs
- struts/shocks + strut tops
- lower control arms

can anyone think of anything else?

[Rasputin]

Sorry I can't help with ideas, but If you're going stock, I've got a da9 I'm about to part out, no mods.

Either way, I'll definately be watching this with interest. Good luck mate.

[stanleym]

1 thing tht might pose a problem unless u kno its been done b4 ...... mounting brackets etc??

u kno i cant be to sure about it but just popped into my head will be prob helping with development in this project should be fun

[qikteg]

pretty sure this will be a first..

[Redteg]

I think pics of the DA3 front suspension would help us out (well me anyway).

I'm not sure if you can use the DA9 radius rod system to keep the lower control arms in their proper position in relation to the crossmember and everything else.

A mix of your torsion bar system and the radius rods may work, but it depends on your front crossmember and all dimensions.

I've spent a fair amout of time breaking, looking at, and repairing my cars front end so see if you can find a pic.

Also I think making it fit will be one thing, but making it work well may be alot tougher.

What I'd do is go to a large wreckers (like Pick n Payless at Blacktown) and have a bit of a play.

So In summary, I've been useless, hehe.

[Muzz]

for such a conversion, i imagine i'll need the following from the donor vehicle:

- springs
- struts/shocks + strut tops
- lower control arms

can anyone think of anything else?

Yes
A good automotive engineer
Quite a bit of money id say $2.5k-$5k.
A good reason to spend alot of money on a cheap car.

Im guessing you mean you want to swap out leaf springs for coil springs?
Why is it you want to do this? To be different or for a performance standpoint?
If its for a performance standpoint, what do you hope to achieve by going to coil springs?
better geometry? the ability to change spring rates and lower your car etc?
Is there any reason you would rather do this, than take the $2-5k+ it will cost to engineer and do the conversion, sell your car, and buy a car with your prefered suspension system?

Show pics of your current suspension system you wish to swap out. If you can find pics of the type of suspension you wish to use, post them to.
Im studying mechanical engineering, specialiseing in motorsport/automotive engineering. Pics to show what youve currently got will greatly help me tell you what exactly your going to need.

[stanleym]

i think its a case of only hacing torsion bars at the front of the da3 and coils at the back..... if lowered like it is bottoms out riducoulsy etc...

the torsion bars had a adjustable screw point that enabled it to be lowered but does not have the right setup to do it

[sx16]

the front wont be able to support spring bro thats why they used torsion bars
i mean anything can be done with money but you going to use lots of it to get this project going

why not get sum 24mm torsion bars from usa