Just a quick question I had regarding this. I'm basically planning to turn my '91 Firebird into a modded Formula clone over time as I get everything all fixed up and cleaned up.

From what I've read, the only real difference between the base model bird w/the 305 TBI and a Formula, other than appearance things (hood, wheels, spoiler, decals), or the optional TPI engines, was that the Formula came with front and rear sway bars, along w/a quick ratio steering unit (the WS6 package, right?). I've been planning to either buy some aftermarket front + rear sway bars, or get them off a WS6 car to put on mine, along w/a posi, disc-brake 10-bolt rear off another car.

I guess my question is, how much of a difference does the quick-ratio steering make? how much would it cost me to add to my car? is it worth the hassle vs. "stock" steering? thanks!

 

bump?

 

are you talking about a aftermarket box or a stock box quick ratio?

 

The stock quick-ratio box. I'm just curious how much of a difference in handling there is between a plain-jane, base model firebird, and a factory WS6 car? And if I bothered to upgrade, would it be better to go aftermarket, and what would it cost? thanks!

 

there is not change in handling, just a slightly faster turn of the wheel.

Aftermarket boxes would be the best, but the best ones are upward of 800 bux.

Honestly, there are other places to work one before the steering box. New, good, shocks and struts and tires are a great start. Then subframe connectors, a wonderbar if you are planning to use wider front wheels (just a little bit of insurance against frame damage). New strut mounts, or if hte buget is there, aftermarket ones with spherical bearing mounts to replace the stock rubber (hotpart, UMI, spohn, racecraft)

 

Hmm, sounds like something I may not even need too much then.

Pretty much all of that stuff I'm getting around to as the funds can support it. I had things kinda planned out in mind in this order..

- New shocks and struts (in progress, went w/KYB GR-2's)
- Wishbone (figured I'd add it early on since they're cheap)
- New tires (When I get a set of 16'' formula wheels)
- Front + Rear sway bars (After I get a posi + disc rear axle on)
- Subframe connectors (before engine/trans swap)
- Strut tower brace (After engine swap)

Figured that should do a good job of beefing up the chassis and improving the handling, especially once it has a decent motor in it

Should I do sway bars or SFC's first? And how much of a difference does replacing the strut mounts do? I didn't bother to pick any up right now, but if it means anything, the car has about 156K on the body. This car will also see much more use as basically being a nice weather/summertime @$$-hauler and the occasional drag strip visit than any serious track racing, I just think that a strengthened chassis and improved handling is always a plus. Thanks for any input!