Front End Upgrades (Inspection Related)

Post by **PHeller** » Sat Oct 31, 2009 2:30 am

I've inspections coming up in December and my broke a** needs to start shopping for parts.

I've got torn steering rack boots, loose tie rods, and sticking/untrue front brakes. Road imperfections make me wonder if my car is going to hold together. The front end is in shambles and feels really loose and "rattly". I'd feel bad doing coilovers when stock it feels like a**.

I really don't want to do a bushing set, but i'm not apposed to other aftermarket parts to stiffen, strengthen and give the front end a more solid feel.

Any pointers?

Post by **hbpignosePA** » Sat Oct 31, 2009 3:11 am

if u want some cheap brake cailpers i still got my stockers somewhere

Post by **Hijacker** » Sat Oct 31, 2009 4:34 am

Just get the usuals fixed that would fail you on an inspection. In Virginia, the things you listed that would fail on would be rack boots and possibly tie rods. If your tie rod ends are loose, replace them when you do the boots. Sticky brakes won't fail in VA, but if the pad is worn below accepted specs, then you would be failed.

There's nothing wrong with trying to make the car feel more stable and sturdy before you start upgrading. I support the idea. Go through, inspect all joint areas, and make sure that all the bolts are tightened on the body. Also, when you fix the tie rod issue and get an alignment, you'd be surprised how solid the front end will feel.

Post by **PHeller** » Sat Oct 31, 2009 4:54 am

What I was curious about was whether there were aftermarket performances pieces that might also solve my inspection related problems.

For instance, and I know it sounds stupid, but maybe cheaper or better tie rods, upgrades to the steering rack that I could while under there.

Also, would a strut tower brace eliminate some of the "shimmying" that occurs when going over bumps? The cowl shake is pretty bad in this old car.

Post by **Hijacker** » Sat Oct 31, 2009 7:09 am

SPL offers upgraded tie rod ends. I believe they can work on stock geometry, but the usual application is to allow control of bump steer on lowered cars.