1971-1973 Motion Vegas

[PxTx]

I actually thought I remembered reading of them using a 12 bolt from an Caprice in one article, maybe that could have been the reference to the top link brackets. Do you think that could be correct Dave? I donot remember why they would have chosen an impala rear over any other ones, maybe they were cheaper?

Paul T

[JoeG]

There's a Motion Vega article in 1975 Chevrolet Performance Annual-- "Quote"--The hot setup rear assembly for high-output engined V-8 Vegas is a narrowed and blueprinted 12-bolt Camaro-type assembly-----" --Had coil spring brackets and special brackets for upper control arms welded to axle .

[whitetop]

JoeG
The brackets they are talking about are stock Vega brackets that were welded on the 12 bolt. The vega used the same type of coil spring/trailing arm setup as a Chevelle etc but they are in totally different position and are different size than the Chevelle. Obviously the Vega parts are much smaller. Don Hardy used to sell the stock GM Vega brackets you welded on your 12 bolt for a do it yourselfer. That way you would not have to cut off your stock brackets from the 7.25 inch vega rear.

The 12 bolt rearend the Joel sold for $900 back then was 49 1/2 inches from flange to flange. So were Don Hardy's. Joel also used many of the Don Hardy motor and tranny mounts.

JoeC had a NOS Don Hardy tranny mount with the Motion decal attached.
Dave
I would think the 12 bolts they used back then was bought wherever they could get the cheapest ones available.

[JoeG]

whitetop,
This particular article was for a 454 so it was pretty much of a "take no prisoners" type of set-up.The upper arms that that would go on the ears of the rear on a chevelle, are now repositioned to be welded on the axle. Motion also used solid bushings on the upper/lower arms.Monster ladder/bar type traction bars.--This particular rear was a Don Hardy,like you said, short axle with safety hubs.And obviously this set-up was not used on every Motion Vega.On the less potent Vegas Motion would go,like you said, the more cost/efficient route on which rear to use. This is actually a very extensive article, with some nice photos.I wish I could have posted this article, as I use the search and peck style of typing. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]