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Tech Question
Charlie Johnson, Humboldt, KS 1970 Dodge Challenger 225ci
Last month I traded my old '72 Sportster chopper for a '70 Challenger project (it joins the '70 Coronet I've already started). I've always wanted to build an E body that was not only very fast but would out-handle a 'Vette. Seems like many years ago I heard that the "A" arms in AAR Cudas and T/A Challengers are much stouter than in the other ponies. So far I haven't been able to confirm this. What's your take on it? Any other handling tips beyond the obvious (heavier torsion bars, sway bars, rr shocks, etc.) would also be greatly appreciated. I originally planned a big block swap but the reduced weight of a stroker Magnum sound interesting. And, although you already know this, your magazine kicks serious ass!
Charlie-
A-arms much stouter than the other "ponies"? If you mean 'Stangs and Camaros, decidedly yes. But AARs and T/As used the same suspension arms as all other B and E-bodies - which is to say, excellent, with a super-beefy forged/stamped combo design lower arm, and a stout tension strut. What made the T/A - AARs unique was the fast-ratio power steering option (mainly, a longer pitman arm), a bigger front sway bar, and Mopar's first application of a rear sway bar. They also featured rear leafs with more arch, and longer rear shocks, to make room for the big rear meats and to keep the side-exit exhaust from being immediately trashed - although this (the arch) is really detrimental to handling.
You're on the right track with handling mods. But the #1 secret here is to fit the widest wheels, shod with the lowest-profile, stickiest tires you can live with. (Look for a treadwear rating no higher than 140.)
Rick
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