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I've been looking into the alternatives for improving the rear end of my Amazon Wagon.
While I was under the rear installing my new OD gearbox, I noticed that some of my rear end bushings were rather worn. I also have a relatively "low" riding rear end, and I usually get a bit of a rear-end clunk. This would be in addition to the low whine of my rear bearings.
The main issue with fixing these issues is availability of parts and some pretty hefty prices for some parts.
Shocks and Springs
As far as I can tell, there are overload springs and limiter straps available from IPD and a full lowering set available from Skandix. Both would run me around $300.00. Alternatively I can get a pair of wagon springs at VLVWorld for $150.00. Gas and Oil shocks are available from several sources for a range of prices 35.00 - 150.00 each. I'd like my car to sit level, or maybe a little higher in the rear, what should I replace to restore/increase my ride height? Is gas or hydraulic better?
Bushings
IPD has a nice rear end bushing set, but only half rubber, and almost all are for the sedan. Skandix has only a couple of bushings, but I'd have to buy a box of 10 @ 7.50 each. I've seen few bushings anywhere else and especially not for a wagon, and particularly not for a '67 wagon.
Bearings
The only bearing source I know of is Swedish Treasures for $60.00 each. I have not been able to find a bearing number yet to explore alternative sources. I'll also have to take the axles to a specialist that could press the old ones off and press the new ones on... or I could buy a specialized tool that does it for $125.00. Either way, $250.00 seems about the minimum that I can expect to pay.
However, I do have a perfectly good 1800E rear end that I could take to a specialty welder and have it modified to fit my '67. I'd guess that $250.00 is probably what I'd be spending for that. Plus I'd have better bearings, disc brakes, and an updated bolt pattern for my new wheels. Seems like a better route, but still wouldn't address my bushings and springs.
Overall, I'd like to improve my rear end handling and rear end "sag" Any suggestions on what should I direct my limited budget towards?
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