drdave39 Posted January 15, 2007 Share Posted January 15, 2007 At 40K miles on my 05 GT Wagon, the struts were definitely going- and they sucked to start, way too much body roll. I just put on new Conti ExtremeContacts, and their extra grip made the stock lack of damping and too-soft springing even worse. Coilovrs didn't make sense given the miles I drive, the Konis are vaporware, and the Ohlins would be expensive overkill...I was scoping this forum and hooked up with Unclemat, who had the above setup with 6K miles on its way from Japan at a very fair price. He was VERY helpful in sorting through the best setup for what I wanted- a "Gran Touring" setup that would soak up our Ohio roads, but keep it level in spirited driving. The Bilsteins and new springs fit the bill perfectly. I also had SS brakelines and Hawk HPS pads put on at the same time, and the entire feel of the car is transformed. A realy nice, firm, BMW-like feel, soaks up the road, MUCH better control in the twisties. I am carrying a lot more speed through my favorite curves, and its nice to have the firmer and more progressive braking! I have no doubt that the new Ohlins would be even nicer, but I'd rather keep the extra $ for the light wheels I am eyeing... I am planning to keep this car forever-5 MT Wagons rule! Thanks Unclemat! Dave Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Edgemar Posted January 15, 2007 Share Posted January 15, 2007 Unclemat is a real asset to the board! He has shared a lot of great knowledge. Time for a JDM RSB! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted January 15, 2007 Share Posted January 15, 2007 I feel flattered drdave, your setup is certainly interesting since you're using milder GT Bilsteins in conjuction with stiffer JDM SpecB springs. JDM GT springs while stiffer than spongy USDM stockers, are not that stiff. OTOH, SpecB Bilsteins are rather on the aggersive, so probably not for everyone. Pinks work with either, but then if someone like you doesn't want to drop the car, your setup really looks like teh winner. Glad you like it! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Scottybue Posted January 18, 2007 Share Posted January 18, 2007 post pics of the wheel gap and overall! now rocking the 2007 Mini Cooper S Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MIKEBRAVO Posted January 19, 2007 Share Posted January 19, 2007 Cool If you can afford College, you probably don't need to go. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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