Ford Repair: Wheel Hop., suspension geometry, coil over springs

Question
Hi Steve,

I just put an 8.8" posi rearend from an '87 Mustang (changed to 4.10's) into my '78 Fairmont (was a 7.5"). I used the stock Fairmont control arms and bolted it up. I also added coil-over springs to the shocks to make the ass-end sit up a little. I have a 215/75/15 tire on it and I get massive wheel hop. Should I get rid of the coil-over springs to eliminate wheel hop?

Thanks,
Dan

Answer
Dan-

  The problem may lie in the suspension geometry.  While the Fairmont and Mustang are built on the same frame, I don't know that the Mustang rear end's control arm mounting point are the same as the Fairmont's.  if they aren't, this could result in suspension bind and excessive wheel hop.  I would look around for some adjustable upper and lower control arms.  That way you can dial in your suspension more accurately.  Also, the tires you've got are helping you any.  A set of 4.10s can make short work of even the best sticky street tires.  Factor everything together and I'm not suprised you're having trouble planting the tires.  I'd keep the coil springs, but try to tweak the suspension to get rid of any possible binding issues.  Hope this helps.

Steve