Twitchy back end !

[Andrew Betteridge]

I bought this toy to play with and avoid UK car tax (thanks Tony Blair).Does anyone know how to stop the back end stepping out of line even in town over uneven ground (I know ragtops are not good, but this is dangerous). Ride is also hard for US vehicle.

[V6Bob]

Many more details needed. What year/model, how many miles/km, have any modifications ever been made to it? Have any parts ever been replaced? What wheels/tires?

Exactly what are you doing when the rear steps out?

What makes you think all "US vehicles" have a soft ride? There's as much variability over here as there is there.

And, if the car has aftermarket parts on it, such as lowering springs, the ride could be anything.

[ November 15, 2003: Message edited by: V6Bob ]</p>

[Guardsman]

Sounds like the rear is too stiff. As the above post said, we need to know what year, etc., so we know what set-up you have now, and what recommendations to make.

[Andrew Betteridge]

Thanks for your interest people, car is standard 1998 convertible. Replaced US 195/16 tyres (sorry, tires) with 225/55 16 Avon ZZ3 on original 5 spoke alloys (unsure as to J size). Seemed to have little effect.
Problem is when the inside wheel on slight corners is unsettled (drain cover or uneven road), even at 20mph in town, the back steps out and feels like driving on oil. THIS IS NOT EXCESSIVE CORNERING.
This is a European car (Km speedo, showing 80,000) so may have stiffer than US suspension ?
Certainly looking at sample video on this site of car heavy braking and dipping at front, my car does not do this.
Thanks again.

[Andrew Betteridge]

Sorry, meant 215/16 originals

[V6Bob]

I think there may be a combination of things going on here.

At 80K, your shocks are probably worn out.

This is a live axle car that doesn't behave as well as an independent rear car on bumps. But your problem sounds more extreme.

Something else may be loose/worn out. I'd have a good mechanic check it out.

The convertible is pretty floppy. Subframe connectors (frame bracing; quite reasonable price, need competent installation) help this a lot.