Need feedback on suspension ASAP

[uv23]

Hi guys. I'd like to book an apt with Concept 1 to get a suspension install this Friday. A few years ago, I had H&R coilovers, ABD front swaybar, and neuspeed rear swaybar. I varied between 2.75 and just over 3 inch drop. It looked great but I'm an anal type of person so the squeaks and groans really got to me.

Flash forward to today. I was thinking of getting one of the matched $650 FK shock/spring combos, but I can't decide between the 40 kit or the 55. Concept 1 has both in stock. I don't want to have to get a new front swaybar again. I've seen some people with the lower kit say its fine and others say you definitely need the swaybar. Does anyone here have first-hand info on the situation? Ken also says he's heard both but that he hasn't encountered any problems. Any info appreciated.

Cheers and many thanks.

[bart]

Re: Need feedback on suspension ASAP

if you get the 55, you need a FSB, you dont with the 35. if you want an alternative on getting it installed for cheaper, PM me.

[R_Ethug]

Re: Need feedback on suspension ASAP

if you have a 1.8T you won't need a FSB with a 55 kit.. i didn't anyways but you will need a 02.5 up to clear.. previous years the bar is smaller and has less clearance.. if you get a 35mm kit you only get a 1.5" drop which will look like stock bmw sport suspension i guess.. 3-4 finger gap something like that

[uv23]

Re: Need feedback on suspension ASAP

Crappers. I have a 2002 1.8T. And I do want a reasonable drop. Decisions decisions...

[Aleks]

Re: Need feedback on suspension ASAP

I have a 2002 1.8t, with the 55 kit, and no FSB upgrade, and haven't had problems yet! Just do it!

[Kor]

Re: Need feedback on suspension ASAP

I would get it installed elsewhere... thats just me though... C1 has good deals on parts, and thats why I go there.

[uv23]

Re: Need feedback on suspension ASAP

I have a 2002 1.8t, with the 55 kit, and no FSB upgrade, and haven't had problems yet! Just do it!

Sweet! Good to know. I wonder why it's so random? Everyone says something different.

I would get it installed elsewhere... thats just me though... C1 has good deals on parts, and thats why I go there.

You're not the first person to suggest I get it installed elsewhere. i was a bit taken aback when they told me the install would be $360. I seem to recall paying about $250 for my H&R coilovers a couple years back. Any suggestions on where else to go? Is it more than a price issue?

[Kor]

Re: Need feedback on suspension ASAP

You're not the first person to suggest I get it installed elsewhere. i was a bit taken aback when they told me the install would be $360. I seem to recall paying about $250 for my H&R coilovers a couple years back. Any suggestions on where else to go? Is it more than a price issue?

Well they had to install mine twice, and a year later the dealership told me I was having some problems due to a partly stripped bolt/nut which they told me would have happened when my suspension was installed. Sooo three strikes for me.

[uv23]

Re: Need feedback on suspension ASAP

So any suggestions on reliable alternative places to install?

[R_Ethug]

Re: Need feedback on suspension ASAP

PM bart for info on his backyard techs. they do it at 1/2 the rate and KNOW modern vw's like the back of thier hands.. i'm sure you could work something out.

[uv23]

Re: Need feedback on suspension ASAP

I did talk to Bart, but I'd rather have a shop install it so that someone is accountable if problems arise. I speak from experience.

TurboMedic, how does your car sit? Is it flat? I'm not into the rake look.
Cheers. (This board needs a beer icon)

[nismodrifter]

Re: Need feedback on suspension ASAP

uv: 55/40 kit gives mad rake, take a look at bart's pictures in the members gallery

[uv23]

Re: Need feedback on suspension ASAP

uv: 55/40 kit gives mad rake, take a look at bart's pictures in the members gallery

This one does look fairly raked:

Maybe I'll just go with the 40mm kit. Blah. Or maybe I'll re-read that suspension thread and go with something other than FK. I was really looking forward to an impulse buy...

[R_Ethug]

Re: Need feedback on suspension ASAP

impulse buy yourself some bilstein and H&R race from simon at eutuning and you'll smile all day long

[Tuna]

Re: Need feedback on suspension ASAP

impulse buy yourself some bilstein and H&R race from simon at eutuning and you'll smile all day long

What he said.