GT suspension refresh - what to get?

by **PominaSube** » Sun Apr 20, 2014 9:58 pm

Currently have an 05 GT wagon, which, generally, is in good health. I'm aiming to keep it for a few years and need to start thinking about refreshing the suspension. It all still works, but its starting to feel a bit worn. What are some decent options - I'd like to sharpen the handling a little, esp at the back which feels like it needs tying down better, without comprising the ride too much as it is really a family car. Also can't have the car sitting too low or it won't get onto the drive. I'm thinking Spec B stuff, but then I might as well just sell the GT and buy a later model. Or is that not really as daft as it sounds??

by **bigBADbenny** » Tue Apr 22, 2014 8:29 am

Your budget?

by **ferret89** » Tue Apr 22, 2014 11:21 am

Even replacing stock suspension will cost at least $500, not much else will get you the same comfort though.

Could buy some BC racing coilovers for about $1200, and with the right damper settings aren't bad for comfort and will tie the back down much better than stock.

Spec B. Bilsteins? Probably anywhere from $400 to $1000 and will be firmer than stock and less comfortable but bearable.

by **PominaSube** » Tue Apr 22, 2014 10:34 pm

Thanks for the thoughts. Budget could be $1-2000 depending on results. I've been in a Spec B and the ride is definitely firmer but I didn't get chance to test the handling properly so can't know if the harder ride comes with better handling. Does this help with the rear end too? Coilovers probably overkill for what I need. I am wondering if its just a case of upgrading to Bilsteins and new bushes...

by **bigBADbenny** » Tue Apr 22, 2014 11:54 pm

$2k would cover rebuilt billies on lowered springs (or s/h or entry level coilovers) f&r sway bars, rear HD swaybar mounts, upgrade lca bushes and an alignment.

Can you install any of it yourself?
What state/city are you in?

by **PominaSube** » Wed Apr 23, 2014 10:10 pm

bigBADbenny wrote:$2k would cover rebuilt billies on lowered springs (or s/h or entry level coilovers) f&r sway bars, rear HD swaybar mounts, upgrade lca bushes and an alignment.

Can you install any of it yourself?
What state/city are you in?

Thanks for that lot. I'm on Northern Beaches, Sydney. Sounds like I could get a fair amount for $2k. Can I do it myself? Probably. Do I have the time? More chance of becoming Pope. I'll need to factor in getting someone to do it, but that's OK - will just need to do it all a bit at a time as parts and budget allow. Need to get the misfire sorted first (already got a thread going on that) and then suspension is next.

by **Sean82** » Fri Apr 25, 2014 12:27 am

I got my Cusco coil overs delivered through Jesse Streeter for under $1800. New. These are so much better than BC or D2 or any
Of the other Taiwanese made coil overs.

If you want some set and forget suspension though, consider Koni adjustable dampers (about $1200 for the full
Set new). If you're happy with stock height just use the stock springs; They'll be fine and with the Konis, you can adjust damper settings fairly easily to suit your preferred response/comfort level

FYI though, I love my coil overs. They're brilliant. Firm, but brilliant

by **shav** » Fri Apr 25, 2014 5:52 pm

Sean82 wrote:I got my Cusco coil overs delivered through Jesse Streeter for under $1800. New. These are so much better than BC or D2 or any
Of the other Taiwanese made coil overs.

If you want some set and forget suspension though, consider Koni adjustable dampers (about $1200 for the full
Set new). If you're happy with stock height just use the stock springs; They'll be fine and with the Konis, you can adjust damper settings fairly easily to suit your preferred response/comfort level

FYI though, I love my coil overs. They're brilliant. Firm, but brilliant

I am seriously contemplating this (Koni's) over coilovers. Dont get me wrong I love the versatility coilovers provide, but I have no interest in lowering the car to 'fully sick' proportions. I'm too old for that. haha Also I believe there is a legality aspect I need to be covered for in terms of insurance. Im not sure coilovers are legal, and considering I need my car, I cannot afford for it to be canaried for having these shocks. Plus I like the comfort of my ride quality.

To the OP, thats a fair budget. It will be a personal decision and it will depend on what you plan to use the car for. i.e. street, street/track or track only etc. Many ways to skin a cat.

by **EOS Heritage** » Sun Apr 27, 2014 11:34 pm

bigBADbenny wrote:$2k would cover rebuilt billies on lowered springs (or s/h or entry level coilovers) f&r sway bars, rear HD swaybar mounts, upgrade lca bushes and an alignment.

Can you install any of it yourself?
What state/city are you in?

is this fitted or install yourself prices?

by **bigBADbenny** » Mon Apr 28, 2014 12:31 pm

Depends, its a ball park figure, new or second hand? would your supplier fit it for free at full retail? Could you install it all your self and just get it aligned?

Its up to you and your suppliers...

Whiteline do a F&R sway and link kit for $650 ish, LCA's for $150ish, AVO mounts are $150ish, BC's are $1200 ish new so yeah ballpark.

Install and align would be $$$ so DIY as much as possible.

by **PominaSube** » Tue May 06, 2014 9:35 pm

Thanks for the info - I like the sound of the Konis, and will get looking for those once we're running right. Lots going on, so the car is lower down the list than I'd like...

by **EOS Heritage** » Wed May 07, 2014 1:11 pm

any thoughts on HSD?? ( sorry to hijack)

by **bigBADbenny** » Wed May 07, 2014 1:30 pm

The best bet is to research local support for your product, as servicing is a "when not if" proposition

by **EOS Heritage** » Wed May 07, 2014 1:37 pm

agreed... but i'm in a does anyone use em on a liberty stage...

by **PominaSube** » Sun Jun 01, 2014 8:56 pm

OK, coming back to this, and looking for components, can anyone provide links or info to suppliers and/or model info for new dampers/springs? I like the sound of Konis all round for $1200, but what model no? Who from? And if I'm thinking of Spec B stuff, where should I start???

Thanks in advance for any help