81 Sportfire
81 Sportfire
I finally had some time this P.M. to start checking out the 81 Sportfire that was given to my son and looks like it might have a L/F suspension under it . There are three drive sprockets on the front drive axle where in the sport manual it only shows two in the center. Plus there are holes that have been drilled to accept the suspension under it now in the tunnel, and the ones that were in there look like they have been worn larger than they should be. Would it be too costly to try to put a Sport suspension back under it or try to find a used Sport tunnel in good condition, or maybe an parts sled to switch around? Other than mainly the suspension and tunnel the motor is good and everything else is in OK condition. Any thoughts or ideas would be appreciated. Mailman
81 Sportfire
Id bet there is an all rubber track in the sled also instead of the stock cleated track. The 80-81 sports had a cleated track which you cant buy new anymore so you have to use a liquifire or newer sport all rubber track that requires 3 drive sprockets and according to the track makers the suspension mounting holes need to be moved back 2 inchs so if you have a rubber track you need 3 sprockets and most likely still have the stock suspension. The 3 sprocket setup is a must for the conversion as far as moving the suspension back that seems to depend on the circumstance as the swap has been done by myself and otheres with and without moving the holes
81 Sportfire
Yep it has a all rubber track and the rails apear to be L/F as they have markings on them as if they came from a salavage yard ( L/F right & L/F left). If I can get the suspension back in the orginal holes will it still work OK? Thanks again. Mailman
81 Sportfire
It may work if theres enough adjustment to properly tighten the track. When adding the new holes they should have added support plates you can do this still it will just be a bit harder to center them since the holes are worn.