Suspension, Shocks & Springs, Bushings & Shackles

Looking For Classic Suspension Restoration Or Aftermarket Suspension Upgrades In Perth?

Classic automobiles get a lot of things right, in our opinion (although we may be biased). The look, sound and power is like nothing else, creating a feeling that is simply missing from most modern vehicles.

However, one thing that gives modern cars a distinct advantage is the quality of the ride. Like steering, car suspension has come a long way in the last few decades, and can result in vintage vehicles that handle like cargo ships.

So, the best of both worlds? Classic car, modern suspension. And, Rare Parts has everything you need to do it, with a range of over 8000 renovation and restoration products.

Shocks and Springs

Often, classic cars use basic gas shock absorbers or struts, coil springs, and occasionally leaf springs.

Leaf springs are a basic form of suspension first used by the Romans (!), consisting of metal layered together to provide support for heavy loads. However, compared to modern suspension systems, they lack tuning ability and are somewhat restrictive, designed to mostly only move vertically.

Modern shockies and springs can vastly improve the ride quality and also offer the potential to adjust your vehicle’s stance or ride height. For tuners, adjustable shocks provide the ability to adjust to your specific handling requirements. Coilover shocks are a combination of shock and performance springs that allow for fine-tuned adjustments, improving a vehicle’s centre of gravity and handling. A high-quality spring saddle can offer fluid rotation and allows the suspension to align itself freely as necessary.

If you need it all, we offer all in one suspension kits that include ball joints, bushings, shocks and springs.

Bump stops

Bump stops are designed to absorb shocks and control the travel of a suspension system, and can significantly improve handling and comfortability. They are an integral component of a suspension setup, helping to resist heat, stress and impact.

Is your car’s control arm a bit worse for wear? Older vehicles, especially muscle cars, were designed to best move in a straight line (as fast as possible) – and the control arm geometry reflected this. A modern tubular control arm set-up provides a thicker tubing and an improved overall design. 

Bushings and Shackles

Aftermarket bushings can be the single most effective suspension improvements you make to a vehicle, as these and the rubber body mounts are typically the first things to wear out.

If your drive-line feels slack or you hear an ominous clunking noise, there is a strong possibility your differential bushes need replacing. The diff is anchored to your car’s frame with bushes, and when they need replacing, you’ll know it – with an uncomfortable ride and lots of noise.

Shackles sit between the leaf spring and the rear hanger, (as it is generally attached to the frame at the rear, though not always), while the other end of the leaf spring is mounted to the chassis and is immovable. We offer Outrigger front end bushes and leaf spring shackle and bush kits for a range of models including the Holden FB, EK, EJ, EH, HD and HR.

Why Rare Parts?

The Rare Parts range of suspension components and accessories offers everything you need to have your car handling at its best. We stock tie rod ends, ball joint boots, CV joints, suspension rubbers and washers, to name just a few.

So, whether you want to replace your vehicle’s, components with those that most closely match factory standard, or you’d prefer to lose the boatlike handling but keep the classic stylings, we’re here to accommodate.

Rare Parts has been servicing Perth for over 30 years, and we’ve established a name as one of Australia’s leading car parts suppliers.

We carry stock parts for all the leading makes and models, including Holden, Ford, Chrysler, Chevrolet, Toyota, Mazda, Nissan and more.

Classics, renovations and restorations are our passion. So, if there’s a rare part you’re after, there’s nowhere you’re more likely to find it.

For all your ride comfort needs contact our Perth office!