Suspension upgrade options for the MGB GT V8 cover springs, dampers, bushes, anti-roll bars and ride height. Each can be addressed individually as part of a focused improvement, or together as part of a comprehensive suspension overhaul. The appropriate level of upgrade depends on the car's intended use, touring, fast-road, occasional track use, and the rest of the specification.
Parabolic Springs
Parabolic leaf springs replace the original multi-leaf rear springs with a single tapered leaf design. The single-leaf approach reduces inter-leaf friction (which is a non-linear contributor to ride harshness), giving more compliant ride quality without losing load capacity. Parabolic springs are a worthwhile upgrade for V8s used as long-distance touring cars.
Telescopic Damper Conversions
Telescopic damper conversion kits replace the original lever-arm dampers with modern telescopic shock absorbers. Front and rear conversions are available, with the rear telescopic conversion being a more popular upgrade than the front (where the lever-arm damper performs the dual function of damping and upper suspension link). Telescopic dampers offer superior damping consistency, easier servicing and a wider range of damping characteristics than the lever-arm originals.
Uprated Lever-Arm Dampers
For owners preferring to retain the original lever-arm damper layout, uprated lever-arm dampers are available, reconditioned units with revised valving for firmer damping than the standard items. These are a worthwhile upgrade where the original damper layout is to be retained but improved damping is needed.
Anti-Roll Bars
Uprated anti-roll bars (front and rear) reduce body roll in cornering further than the standard items. A larger-diameter front bar is the most common upgrade; some installations also fit a rear anti-roll bar where none was present originally. The factory V8 retained the chrome-bumper MGB GT anti-roll bar specification at the front, with no rear bar fitted.
Polyurethane Bushes and Other Items
Polyurethane bushes replace the original rubber bushes throughout the suspension and steering, providing tighter location and reduced compliance for sharper handling. Lowering blocks and shorter springs are available where reduced ride height is desired. Adjustable damper valves allow fine-tuning of damping characteristics on rebuilt lever-arm dampers.
Sub-Sections
Parabolic Spring Kits, Front and Rear Telescopic Damper Conversions, Front Suspension Conversions, Uprated Lever Arm Dampers, Anti Roll Bars, Armstrong Damper Adjustable Valves, Lowering Blocks and Springs, and Polyurethane Bush Kits each cover their respective product ranges.
MGOC Spares
MGOC Spares supplies suspension upgrades for the MGB GT V8, see individual sub-sections for details.