How To Improve The Tr6 Rear Suspension Roll Steer

How to Improve TR6 Rear Suspension Roll Steer

The Triumph TR6, a classic British sports car, is known for its engaging driving experience. However, a common complaint among owners is excessive rear suspension roll steer. This article explores the causes of this issue and provides practical solutions to improve handling and stability.

Understanding Roll Steer in the TR6

Roll steer refers to the change in toe angle (the angle of the wheels pointing inward or outward) that occurs when the car rolls in a corner. In the TR6, the rear suspension's design can contribute to excessive roll steer, leading to unpredictable handling, especially during spirited driving. This is primarily due to the live axle design and its interaction with the trailing arm suspension geometry.

Causes of Excessive Roll Steer in TR6 Rear Suspension:

• Trailing arm geometry: The geometry of the trailing arms themselves plays a significant role. Slight imperfections or wear in the bushings can drastically affect the toe change during suspension articulation.
• Suspension bushings: Worn or damaged suspension bushings allow excessive movement within the suspension components, amplifying the roll steer effect. These bushings are crucial for maintaining precise suspension geometry.
• Axle location: The positioning of the live axle itself can influence the degree of roll steer. Any misalignment or improper adjustment will exacerbate the problem.
• Incorrect wheel alignment: Even with a well-maintained suspension, incorrect wheel alignment can significantly contribute to roll steer and poor handling.

Solutions to Reduce Roll Steer

Improving the TR6's rear suspension roll steer requires a multi-pronged approach focusing on maintaining and upgrading key components:

1. Inspect and Replace Worn Bushings:

This is the most crucial step. Worn suspension bushings are the primary culprit behind excessive roll steer. A thorough inspection of all bushings – particularly those in the trailing arms, radius arms, and spring shackles – is essential. Replacing worn bushings with high-quality polyurethane or rubber bushings is strongly recommended. Polyurethane bushings offer increased durability and help maintain precise suspension geometry.

2. Upgrade to Adjustable Suspension Components:

While more involved, upgrading to adjustable suspension components like adjustable trailing arms or radius arms offers precise control over the suspension geometry. This allows for fine-tuning the suspension setup to minimize roll steer and optimize handling characteristics.

3. Check and Adjust Axle Location:

Ensure the live axle is correctly positioned and properly aligned. Any misalignment will negatively impact suspension geometry and contribute to roll steer. Consult a workshop manual or experienced TR6 mechanic for precise specifications on axle placement.

4. Precision Wheel Alignment:

A professional wheel alignment is crucial. Even after addressing the suspension components, an incorrect wheel alignment can negate improvements. A proper alignment ensures the wheels are correctly toed-in or toed-out, minimizing roll steer and improving overall handling.

5. Consider an Anti-Roll Bar (ARB):

While not directly addressing roll steer caused by suspension geometry, fitting a rear anti-roll bar can help reduce body roll, which indirectly reduces the magnitude of roll steer effects. It's crucial to choose an ARB appropriate for your TR6 and driving style.

Conclusion:

Addressing excessive rear suspension roll steer in your TR6 involves meticulous attention to detail. By systematically inspecting and addressing worn bushings, upgrading suspension components where necessary, and ensuring proper wheel alignment, you can significantly improve the car's handling, stability, and overall driving experience. Remember to consult a qualified mechanic if you lack the expertise to perform these repairs yourself. Driving a TR6 with predictable and well-controlled handling will elevate your enjoyment of this classic sports car.