4th gen suspension help
#1
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4th gen suspension help
Going to be replacing rear springs and shocks (already purchased) and looking to refresh the rest of the rear end on my 98 v-6 firebird. This is a daily driver so no need for performance upgrades, just better than tired 16 year old 105,000 mile OEM worn out stuff.
What bushings etc should I be looking to replace while I'm back there? In addition the front end will be getting the same treatment, what needs a refresh up there???
Tia
What bushings etc should I be looking to replace while I'm back there? In addition the front end will be getting the same treatment, what needs a refresh up there???
Tia
#2
Team Owner
In the rear, lower control arm bushings, panhard bushings, and sway bar bushings/links, if the car is so equipped. Check the Moog catalog, as they may sell both the LCAs and PHB with new bushings already installed, making the job pretty simple (I know they used to, they may not anymore). If the rear isn't sagging, I wouldn't waste the money on springs, and save it for GOOD shocks.
In front, ball joints (upper and lower), control arm bushings (upper and lower), outer tie rod ends, and sway bar bushings and end links. Again, if the ride height is good, keep the OE springs, and put the money toward GOOD shocks.....Bilstein or Koni. Sway bar stuff, go with Energy Suspension...
In front, ball joints (upper and lower), control arm bushings (upper and lower), outer tie rod ends, and sway bar bushings and end links. Again, if the ride height is good, keep the OE springs, and put the money toward GOOD shocks.....Bilstein or Koni. Sway bar stuff, go with Energy Suspension...
#3
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Look up BMR suspension parts. Also, Founders performance. Very nice, made in USA, come with poly bushings in the LCA and panhard bar. Best of all, VERY reasonable. Heres mine. I was lucky to find a set of NOS De Carbon factory rear shocks on the Bay.... excellent shocks by the General.
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Careful with poly bushing as they can make the ride noticeably stiffer and cause more squeaks/rattles.
I would look into better lower control arms as well, the stockers are junk and flex too easily.
Good advice already posted. Also give UMI suspension a try, I have almost their whole 4th gen catalog under my 1999 SS.
I would look into better lower control arms as well, the stockers are junk and flex too easily.
Good advice already posted. Also give UMI suspension a try, I have almost their whole 4th gen catalog under my 1999 SS.