Just as well I was lowerinng the van, I've found the cause of a vague rear end. I think the original parts a bit beyond their shelf life - can't wait to drive the bus with the new bits fitted.
You will be suitably impressed at the difference this will make dude and tyre wear will be decreased aswell You need two longer bolts to get the pressed steel plate camped down whilst you fit the two standard length bolts Then remove the longer ones and fit the standard ones back
Cheers paradox, looking forward to stright line driving. I've done the offside already and thankfully didn't need trick extra long bolts - lubrication with talc powder enabled me to push it al together snuggly - hope the nearside goes back just as well.
Certainly did Mr snotty - 4 donuts and 2 spring plate covers all from VW Heritage. Couldn't separate spring plate from the torsion bar (they are gonna be together for ever methinks) so too Zeds advice and lowered by 1 inner spline - easy peasy. Oh and the talc idea that you mentioned to me in an earlier thread was a top tip.
Excellent, excellent - a job well done . I'm surprised you didn't need longer bolts - the covers do need a good heave. Not surprised your rear end was a bit wayward with the old ones, although rear wheel steering is very fashionable these days
I thought that was on very long vehicles - mind you I have seen a picture of a stretched bay with a beetle grafted on for a hi-top roof.
When the rubbers are worn it allows the rear wheels to toe in/out when under load from say a lane change This has the effect of trying to steer the bus from the rear You end up trying to compensate with the front steering so end up with lots of steering inputs to try and keep in a straight line Obviously if your front end components arent a 100% it gives you even more compenasation needed and you have a constant battle trying to keep the vehicle straight
Mr paradox - are you sure you haven't been driving my van? You have described the symptoms perfectly. I did a commplete front end overhaul last winter and despite everything being either new (good quality components) or orginal re-furbed, and even after having the camber and toe re-set (by a bay expert) it still drives a bit like the circus clown car! I guess I will need the rear camber and toe checking and re-set?
I love this bless ya! although if hadn't owned an old bug in my youth and lowered it by turning the splines, sheering one of the bolts & having drill it out and re-tap it then I would be in the same boat as you