I need to get some new suspension parts because I am still on the originals at 70K miles. I have already bent two rims from hitting potholes and think my worn out suspension is part of the problem (wrong tire pressure being the other). I want to get a setup that will reduce the banging my cars takes from uneven pavement, manhole covers and all the other hazards on the shitty streets of DC. I would like to lower the car a little, maybe 1.5", but isn't the priority. What do you guys think the best setup for me would be? Also what parts do I need to get, just shocks and springs or so I need more? Sorry if this sounds retarded but suspension is not my forte.
#22511, "RE: Damn Potholes!!" In response to Reply # 4
Originally posted by 99blackRS Is it possible/good idea to run Pro-kits with the stock struts?
Possible? Yes. Good idea? No. People will tell you all day "I run aftermarket springs with stock struts and my car handles well and it's fine". First of all, it's just a matter of time before they blow so you might as well switch them when you have the suspension apart. Secondly, high-performance struts such as Tokico Blues/Illuminas/Koni Yellows mated with a lowering spring will yield outstanding results depending on the combo. If you can afford it, get new struts now.
#22512, "RE: Damn Potholes!!" In response to Reply # 5
Is it going to cause problems if I don't install a camber kit with the Pro-kits? They say they drop about 1.2 maybe as much as 1.5 after settling. I know you have to if you drop like 2" but don't know about 1-1.5? Anybody?
#22516, "RE: Damn Potholes!!" In response to Reply # 6 Feb-17-04 01:52 PM by Doug96GS
It seems to differ from car to car. With my prokits, the rear camber wasn't awful, but it wasn't great. The thing that really kills your tires is the toe (straightness) of the wheel. If that is off, which it will almost definetely be after a spring swap, your tires will wear horribly. My suggestion to you is to get a cheap ($15 or Ingalls bushing) kit when you do your suspension and then have it aligned. If you don't your tires will look like my old G-Force T/A's:
That picture was taken after about a year with no alignment.
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#22526, "RE: Damn Potholes!!" In response to Reply # 8
Im runnin the Pro Kit on Monroe shocks/struts. The ride quality is fine. Little stiffer than stock, but thats expected with any spring. I blew one of my shocks after riding on coilovers for about 8 months, but springs are a whole different world imo.