Suspension modification

[larkja]

I've been doing some searches but didn't get exactly what I was looking for.

I have an '82 SC with Bilstein greens and lowered to euro specs. I will be replacing the tires very soon and don't want to break the bank (S-02s are a bit too expensive). So, here are my questions:

1. Of the tires that are out there on the market, what would you recommend?
2. Aside from the tires, I would like to start modifying the suspension for track use. I have about $1,000 right now to put into the suspension. What would you recommend? The Bilsteins are still in great shape so I would rather not have to replace them.
3. The car currently has 7 & 8x16s with 205s in the front and 225s in the rear. There is about a 3/4" gap between the outside of the tire and the inside of the fender lip. I would like to close that gap. Would you recommend spacers or go with a wider tire in the rear - 245s? My only concern with 245s on an 8" rim would be rollover under hard cornering conditions.

Thanks,
Jim

[Jack Olsen]

I've never heard of a problem with 245's on 8x16's.

[Grady Clay]

Jim,

I would start investigating the three areas of easy suspension mods:
Larger (stiffer) torsion bars.
Appropriate adjustable sway bars.
Better suspension attachment bushings/bearings.

You are right; you can use your good struts/shocks with considerably stiffer suspension setting.

For immediate gratification, spend $$$ on tires.
For long term handling improvements, spend $ on suspension.

Best,
Grady

[Shaun @ Tru6]

Jim,

I would add 22/29 bars and Elephant Racing bearings front and rear. At that point you could consider yourself done for a good season or two.

For budget-conscious tires, check out Kumho Ecsta MX, although I'd love to hear how the new Avon's are.

[larkja]

Thanks. That's exactly what I was looking for.

Jim

[88 Club Sport]

Here's my 02 cents worth

Keep her stock and get good tires and spent the $1000k on 5-6 DE's. Then start the mods.

That said, it's easier to say than do so I'd spend it as follows:

1. Used Torsions form our members - 22/28's or 23/29's. $350 for the pair.
2. Replace the front bushings with poly's and Neatrix in the rear $100 (see Chucks thread Suspension bushing, the right way )
3. Revalve the Bilsteins for the torsions ($400)
4. Turbo Tie rods ($120)
5. You'll need to corner balance/align so that will tkae you over the $1k but it will be noticably different.

As for tires, I've heard the Khumos Exsta MX's are ok for the price.....$450 or so for all 4. Ok for street but I think you'd want more if you are going the DE route.

[88 Club Sport]

I meant to mention that my 78 SCarrera has 225's on the front and 245's on the rear. I had to roll the fronts but the rears have no clearance issues.