Date:         Thu, 13 Apr 2000 07:53:35 -0700
Reply-To:     Karl Wolz <wolzphoto@WORLDNET.ATT.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Karl Wolz <wolzphoto@WORLDNET.ATT.NET>
Subject:      Re: Suspension Upgrades
Comments: To: Wolfvan88@AOL.COM

I just had my steering rack replaced.  Helluva difference.

I realize this is not an upgrade, but it is worth noting.

Karl Wolz

----- Original Message -----
From: "Robert Lilley" <Wolfvan88@AOL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Thursday, April 13, 2000 7:14 AM
Subject: Suspension Upgrades


There are many ways to improve the stock suspension.

1)  Adding different tires- stiffer sidewalls
2)  Add different springs
3)  Add different shocks- lower/raise ride height, increased spring rate.
4)  Add different springs and different shocks
5)  Add a bigger front sway bar with rubber bushings
6)  Add a bigger front sway bar with urethane bushings
7)  Add a bigger front sway bar AND add a rear sway bar with rubber bushings
8)  Add a bigger front sway bar AND add a rear sway bar with rub urethane
bushings
9)  Add bigger front sway bar; add a rear sway bar with either rubber or
urethane bushings, different springs or different shocks.
10) Adding air shocks to none or any of the above.
11) Adding 15" Rims and lower profile tires


What your budget and desired results.

Springs: @$289 H7R others $???
Sway bar $119 Front/rear w/ rubber bushings
Sway bar $159 Front/rear w/ urethane bushings
Shocks from $29 to over $100 each depending on brand.
Tires $???

Changing the suspension can be costly.

Adding a rear sway bar helps in controlling the rear end during cornering
and cross-winds, BUT only add a rear IF the front bar is increased!
Otherwise it will make the car front end unstable and cause steering
problems and loss of control!


Robert