Sutoto2189

Just got some quick questions for you guys and gals.
Im in the process of rebuilding my 85 Iroc and im know for sure i want to get a aftermarket panhard rod, lower trailing arms, subframe connectors, and a torque arm for my car. I just need some basic information on the parts im considering. Im looking for guidance and direction of what to do as this is my first ever restoration and im a noobie at this game.

Im looking at a suspension package from Hotchkis. Ive never heard anything about the company, just seeing if anybody has used anything from them.
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/HSS-1801/

Here is a torque arm im considering.
http://www.jegs.com/i/Jegster/550/40...oductId=744013

And as far as subframe connectors, im at a loss. Should i go with bolt on, or weld in. I prefer bolt on if possible... Im not the best welder.. LOL

But thanks for any advice/input!!

jb3829

iTrader: (1)

I've added mostly UMI suspension parts and I like them because they're good products and the price is decent. As far as SFC's......I'd go UMI weld in. Spend the xtra bucks and have someone who knows what they're doing WELD them in. You'll appreciate the difference. Remember, these beasts are 20+ years old and the suspension parts should be replaced before any power add ons in my opinion....what's the point of adding power if ya can't steer or stop the thing safely? I know it's a slow approach, but it's well worth it in the long run. BTW....UMI usually runs promotions and I'd wait for one. Good luck

Sutoto2189

Looks like a nice product. Im going for cheap and yet effectiveness for these upgrades. And as far as stoping power goes... only time ive ever used the brakes in the car was when my dad was towing me to my new shop from my uncles chicken coupe... lol. All 4 tires locked up when i stood on them.
As far as front suspension goes, how critical is upgraded front equipment?? Its going to be a mostly street car. Im shooting for 550hp with this car...
Any other suggestions from anybody else? Don't be shy..

resop27

iTrader: (8)

you can get that same package through umi for abit cheaper. Also depending on the mileage of the car I would look into a front end rebuild kit. Are you lowering the car? or keeping it stock ride height

resop27

iTrader: (8)

umiperformance.com

http://www.spohn.net/

http://www.bmrfabrication.com/

any of these companies sell reputable parts just about everyone on this site probably has a part from one of them. Not saying everyone.

WS6LOVE

When I installed my Spohn adj. steering brace(aka wonder bar) I noticed a huge difference in the car. Just rolling the car off the ramps I noticed a huge reduction in flex in my t top car. I also recommend polyurethane bushings everywhere. I have the WS6 sway bars with poly links and bushings and it handles pretty tight.

JamesC

iTrader: (5)

Since the OP has an IROC, the Wonderbar should already be in place.

JamesC

WS6LOVE

O yea...Forgot about that ;P

UMI Sales

Hello
Thanks everyone for suggesting UMI Performance. And when you go with UMI Performance you are getting excellent customer service and tech support. All of the products that we manufacture are made and tested here at our own facility right here in the USA. If you have any other questions feel free to ask. And I will be more than glad to help.
Thanks
Brad

86TA4SALE

jb3829:

How do you like the KYB gas-adjusts and the GR-2 struts? I have those exact parts brand new and sitting around waiting to go in. I was planning to do everything at once.

~Matt

I H8 WWD

iTrader: (5)

I'm going with Spohn, mainly because they offer the most products for us, so far, that and they do all tubular with their new Del-Sphere, that is also adjustable, I am big on tubular and want as much adjustability as possible on my car. Also i have been hinted of new products coming out from them. I heard this last year and haven't seen any new products added yet, but I know their coming, but what could they be.

But UMI has added a few products since I last looked, like sway bars and cast/camber plates.

I'd say though, figure out everything you want, then figure out which company would best suit your needs now and in the future.

Sutoto2189

I might buy a spring kit that will lower the car 1 inch. And as far as mileage, shes got 99k on her. Is there an advantage over tubular design vs boxed/squared designs or even vise versa? Ive never driven the car under its own power, so i have no idea what it currently handles like or drives like.. The engine was blown when i bought the car, but the engine is at the engine shop. Getting the works... And like i said before im a noobie at this stuff, my dad is an old skool hotroder and im going off of his suggestions as to what i need. I already knew if i was going to make any power, i would need SFC's or i would ruin the body. Also my engine man redid a 350 for another third gen here in town, i think he said it was 350 horse and about 400 foot pounds, and the guy put it in his car, never did anything to the car as far as aftermarket stuff goes and riped the rear end out from under the car!!

Right now my car is ready for my body man, so maybe i should just buy a new front end kit? I cant see the sense in finishing up the car, put the motor/trans in it then decide i want to upgrade the front and have to stand on my head to get at bolts....

86TA4SALE

Yea I would heave them check chassis parts like the k-member before the motor goes back in. Do a front-end rebuild now before the motor is back in.
I have read on here that as far as lower control arms go, boxed would be more for drag racing. It would hinder your maneuverability but support traction in a straight line.

~Matt

Sutoto2189

What are you refering to exactly when you say K-member? Sorry for asking such dumb questions. lol

Is it this - http://www.byunspeed.com/images/SPO704.jpg

I H8 WWD

iTrader: (5)

Edit: Yes that's a k-member, its what the engine sits on, big hunk of metal under the motor, most likely rusted to hell, but don't get this wrong, it is a very strong piece.

What your saying is what I plan to do. I want to totally redo my whole suspension so the car can use all the power or what little power it has to its full potential, before I think about doing things like a motor swap or HCI.

Boxed vs Tubular is like Black vs White. Its going to get a 50/50 rap either way. Do what makes you happy, and for me, that's tubular. Have fun.

I see UMI has their Roto Joint up on their page now. UMI you really are trying to bring me in aren't you. A couple more products and I think it could be possible. I have about another year before I get into suspension so you got time

Sutoto2189

I really appreciate the feedback im getting. If anybody else wants to add in, feel free. Im open to all suggestions. Thanks again!!

my89

On the subject of steering, any advice on new steering boxes? I am pretty sure mine is worn out, and I figure getting one off another 3rd gen will just replace the same issue.

86TA4SALE

There are different ratio steering boxes, so don't just pull one at a yard and think it will bolt in. Check the link below under the "steering" section. It gives good tips and advice for fixing your steering box without just replacing the whole unit.

~Matt

Thirdgen6.6l

is that true that using polyurethane bushings is bad ? because its made out off hard rubber ?

WS6LOVE

I see no downside of using poly bushings. They're low cost and you notice a pretty big diff in performance. So far, I only have poly swaybar endlinks and bushings and engine/transmission mounts. I love the improvement in handling and the poly engine/trans mounts help you put more of the power you're making to the wheels. From what I read, the only 'bad' place to put them is in the lower control arms(in the rear). In a corner, they could bind up since they don't flex as much. Straight line is supposed to be better tho. But I think UMI and Spohn make setups that cure this issue.

Thirdgen6.6l

where can I buy none polyurethane bushings LCA ? I have a link back when I own a 4 gen on ls1 tech, but its been a long time I lost it. any one know ?

86TA4SALE

Sorry I forgot the link for the steering box:

https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/susp...nsion-how.html

This is actually a really good thread (^)and I have to keep looking for it.... bookmarked.

Some people have complained about the poly parts squeaking, but you would hear it more from outside the car. Below is a link to Spohn's poly bushings and mounts.

http://www.spohn.net/shop/1982-1992-...s-Accessories/

~Matt

Jekt

i would start figuring out what you all want and buy it from summit. Same price but shipping will only be $7. even if they are a lil more the shipping usually more then makes up for it. Yes and also if it doesnt have to be right now wait for UMI to have its sale, i bought all my stuff when they had it on sale and saved a couple hundred.

Sutoto2189

Well i appreciate everybodys feedback. I think im going to go with UMI Performance, and I think im going to wait for a bit and see what goes on sale. Ive called and talked to them, Brad to be exact and they seem to be very professional and every question i asked, he had and answer for me. They reeled me in...