Gents, To begin with - yes, I have searched (hopefully) thoroughly! I think the most answered question on this forum is "do I need new shocks with my springs?" and so I am not asking such a question. As you can guess, I am looking to lower my VE. At the moment, suspension-wise, it's a bit of a kludge: the springs are FE2 (I think off a V8, the front end is fairly high), the front shocks are Monroe GT Sport Gas and the rear shocks are stock. Now, I am looking to get some GT Sports for the rear, and most likely some King Springs to replace the FE2s. I have a few questions, and was hoping someone may be able to help: 1) I like the staggered look of the VE's (ie. ass end looks to be higher) - should I therefore go for SSSL (front) and SSL (rear)? (I have a V6) 2) Given most of the steering components will be out to replace said springs/shocks, is there anything recommended which should be replaced at the same time which would generally improve steering? I have heard that replacing the sway bar link and sway bar itself may yield some results - is that correct and are there any other parts? 3) Generally speaking, can a mechanic do said work? I know I'll need a wheel alignment which they may not do, but I will need to get said mods done and then wait for the springs to settle anyway - so I was thinking I may as well get this work done by a mechanic (I need to get it serviced soon anyway) and then take it to say, Bridgestone, to get an alignment later on. Cheers
If you're going SSSL front you should consider replacing the strut top bearings while you're at it as the factory ones will press themselves flat with the extra stiffness of the suspension. Most people suggest Super Pro.
Have a chat to GSL Rallysport about what is good to change in the front end - and they'll be able to give you some prices at the same time to give you an idea of where you'll be standing. As above.. definitely change the strut mounts - they will collapse, if they haven't already. Good rubber ones (boge or similar) or urethane (super pro) is the go. Obviously urethane will ride harder - but I have super pro urethane mounts and have no complaints - doesn't feel jarring at all - can definitely tell there's less play in them, but it's not harsh by any means. Yes, most mechanics can do the work - some don't do the alignments though but, in most cases, you're better off going to a specialist for that anyway.
