So I'm buying myself a little graduation present on the 1st of the month. I'm debating purchasing a combo of UMI torque arm (non-trans mount), sub-frame connectors, new struts/shocks (KYB adjustable), and a few small things versus the purchase of a c5 brake conversion for the front.

I've got a fair amount of engine mods, so i'm thinking to beef up the suspension & chassis and then do the brakes next...or should I do the brakes first. Mine work great, but its a heavy car and I would like the big rotors up front from the vette.

Any opinions?

Also, I plan to get rid of some old parts taking up space in the garage, but I can't access the parts for sale forum. can someone help with this?

 

I personally always build the WHOA before I build the GO!

Would definitely suck to have a drivetrain and suspension that could get you into trouble that your brakes can't get you out.

 

97 has pretty good brakes, i would go the first option. you will be surprised at how much you can improve the handling on these.

 

SS brakes are actually quite good with good blanks and pads (I believe the 98-02 system is a bit improved over the 93-97 versions, but I don't have the details handy). I would go with shocks on all fours (SLP Bilsteins or Koni SAs if you have the coin) -- forget about KYB; get some hollow sways like Strano's 35/22. Next welded SFRs and STB. If you like handling, give Stranoparts.com a call -- tell him your goals and desires and he will give you some great advice.

 

dang,,, so what wrong with the hollow strano sways? i just ordered some.

 

Thanks for the link...these guys seem to have great pricing. Have you tried the KYB shocks? I haven't heard anything about these. But I'm open to the idea of doing the bilsteins. What's the real difference?

I already have the STB, tubular k-member, and eibach springs.
Has anyone else used their springs? If I'm changing the struts/shocks, I think I'll give their springs a shot.

also, is there a definite advantage to weld-in SFC to bolt in?

Thanks for the input?

 

Nothing, I fixed the poor wording -- that's what happens when I revise and extend my comments.

 

The only shocks you see Strano recommend are Konis (adjustable, and good for lowering too) and Bilsteins (good if not lowering and saving coin). WS6Store.com has the best price on SLP Bilsteins shipped I found, Konis from Strano also include installation advice for settings which is worth something. Definitely go for shocks and sways first, IMHO. How many miles on your current shocks -- are they original?

Since you have Eibachs, you are lowered, and if they are not the SLP versions that match the SLP Bilsteins, I would NOT recommend anything but Konis, as Bilsteins' life would be hastened with them. KYB adjustments are crude, and since you have an SS -- I would get shocks that truly control the lowered springs. If you are set on lowering, I would strongly recommend Strano's lowering springs.

If you buy SFCs and don't weld them right away, get the bolt kit with the weld-on versions from UMI -- then you can get them welded later. Welding will provide a more rigid bond.

Also, 4th Gens do not have struts, they are coil-over shocks in the front.

Again, call Sam Strano and discuss these things with him -- he won't steer you wrong...

 

thanks for the advice, I like the look and handling of lowering springs. I've lowered just about every performance car i've had. I'm very into the handling aspect of my vehicles.

I'm gonna give them a call at strano...seem's like the right thing to do.

 

I spent a few minutes on the phone with Sam and he supported everything you just wrote. I wanted to try his springs, but he's backordered like two months. He pretty much convinced to spend the money on the Koni's and sways, which will be a big help. He said the torque arm and SFC are good upgrades, but the money would be better spent on a set of Kick-A$$ shocks. I'm gonna order a set of Koni's...once I get them installed I'll post up some picks and feedback.