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The AMC AMX is a classic American muscle car known for its powerful performance and distinctive styling. However, like many classic vehicles, its suspension system can benefit from upgrades to enhance cornering capabilities and launch control. In this article, we will explore various suspension upgrades available for the AMC AMX, focusing on how these modifications can improve handling and overall driving experience.
Understanding the AMC AMX Suspension System
The factory suspension setup on the AMC AMX typically includes a front coil spring and rear leaf spring configuration. While this setup provides a decent ride quality, it can be improved for better performance on the track or during spirited driving. Upgrading the suspension components can lead to improved stability, traction, and responsiveness.
Benefits of Suspension Upgrades
Upgrading the suspension on your AMC AMX offers several advantages:
- Improved Handling: Enhanced suspension components can reduce body roll and improve cornering stability.
- Better Traction: Upgraded shocks and springs can provide better grip during acceleration and cornering.
- Increased Comfort: A well-tuned suspension can offer a more comfortable ride by absorbing road imperfections.
- Customizable Performance: Upgrades allow for adjustments based on driving style and conditions.
Key Suspension Upgrades for the AMC AMX
Several key components can be upgraded to enhance the suspension system of the AMC AMX:
- Coil Springs: Upgrading to performance coil springs can lower the ride height and improve handling by providing a stiffer spring rate.
- Shocks and Struts: High-performance shocks and struts can significantly improve ride quality and handling by better controlling the suspension movement.
- Anti-Roll Bars: Adding or upgrading anti-roll bars can reduce body roll during cornering, improving stability and confidence in turns.
- Control Arms: Upgrading to adjustable control arms allows for better alignment and suspension geometry adjustments.
- Bushings: Replacing worn rubber bushings with polyurethane bushings can enhance responsiveness and reduce flex.
Coil Spring Upgrades
Coil springs play a crucial role in the suspension system by supporting the weight of the vehicle and absorbing bumps. Upgrading to performance coil springs can provide several benefits:
- Lowered Center of Gravity: Performance springs can lower the vehicle’s center of gravity, enhancing stability during cornering.
- Increased Stiffness: A stiffer spring rate reduces body roll and improves handling characteristics.
- Improved Ride Height: Adjusting the ride height can improve aerodynamics and reduce drag.
Selecting the Right Coil Springs
When selecting coil springs for your AMC AMX, consider the following factors:
- Spring Rate: Choose a spring rate that balances comfort and performance based on your driving style.
- Ride Height: Decide whether you want a lowered stance for aesthetics or a factory height for comfort.
- Material: Look for springs made from high-quality materials to ensure durability and performance.
Shock Absorber and Strut Upgrades
Upgrading the shocks and struts is essential for improving the overall handling of the AMC AMX. Performance shocks provide better damping control, which translates to improved ride quality and handling.
- Types of Shocks: Consider options like gas-charged, adjustable, or monotube shocks for enhanced performance.
- Damping Characteristics: Look for shocks that offer adjustable damping settings for personalized performance.
- Installation: Ensure that the shocks are compatible with your specific AMX model for optimal performance.
Anti-Roll Bar Upgrades
Anti-roll bars, also known as sway bars, are vital for reducing body roll during cornering. Upgrading to a thicker anti-roll bar can significantly enhance cornering performance.
- Benefits: A thicker bar increases stiffness, reducing body roll and improving cornering grip.
- Installation: Anti-roll bars are typically easy to install and can be a cost-effective upgrade.
- Adjustability: Some aftermarket bars offer adjustable settings for personalized performance tuning.
Control Arm Upgrades
Control arms are crucial for maintaining proper suspension geometry. Upgrading to adjustable control arms allows for precise alignment and improved handling.
- Alignment Adjustments: Adjustable control arms enable fine-tuning of camber and caster angles.
- Increased Strength: Aftermarket control arms are often made from stronger materials, enhancing durability.
- Improved Performance: Better geometry leads to improved tire contact with the road, enhancing grip.
Bushing Upgrades
Replacing factory rubber bushings with polyurethane bushings can improve suspension responsiveness and reduce flex during cornering.
- Benefits of Polyurethane: These bushings provide better performance and longevity compared to rubber.
- Reduced Flex: Polyurethane bushings minimize unwanted movement, improving handling precision.
- Installation: While installation may require some effort, the performance gains are worth it.
Conclusion
Upgrading the suspension on your AMC AMX can lead to a more enjoyable and performance-oriented driving experience. By investing in quality components such as coil springs, shocks, anti-roll bars, control arms, and bushings, you can significantly improve cornering abilities and launch control. Whether you are a weekend warrior or a serious track enthusiast, these upgrades will enhance your AMC AMX’s overall performance and handling.