RE: [DML] Re: Trailing Arm Bolts - Engineering

["Mike Griese" <mike.griese@xxxx>]

There have not been any pervasive problems with trailing arm
attachements on the Esprit. The suspension geometry is
very similar and uses similar components. The Esprit
uses a 7/16 x 4.5" bolt, the DeLorean an M12 of unspecified
length. Esprits of the same vintage as the DeLorean were
delivering 50%-80% more horsepower using the same
suspension. Later versions of the Esprit are delivering
almost 3x the hp. Remember that the engine mounts,
gearbox mounts, and other rear suspension pickup points
are also involved with the transmission of power from
the engine to the frame.

The rubber bushings used to isolate the trailing arm from
the rest of the frame is no different an application than
using rubber bushings to isolate other suspension or powertrain
components from the frame. Removing these items or replacing
them with heim joints, spherical joints, or ball joints will
transmit a lot more vibration and harshness to the
passenger compartment and possibly adversely effect
handling by removing compliance from the suspension
attachment points.

Mike

-----Original Message-----
From: Walter [mailto:Whalt@xxxx]
Sent: Sunday, November 11, 2001 2:49 PM
To: dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: Re: [DML] Re: Trailing Arm Bolts - Engineering
. . .

It sounds like the trialing arm bolt problem is not just limited to the
DeLorean. Rob Grady told me that he has a Lotus that uses the same
arrangement, but the bolt used is one size thinner than that used on the
DeLorean. Does anyone know of the problems that Lotus has had concerning
recalls if any?

Walt Tampa, FL