SPL Tension rods

[66mgb]

I just installed my black anodized adjustable tension rods from SPL.

Passenger side oem rod was perfect, however the drivers side bushing was shot. PO must have replaced the passenger side at some time, because the rod end and bushing was slightly bigger diameter than the drivers side. May explain partly why my Q felt "weird" when the suspension deflected.

The whole procedure took less than an hour. It really would've been nice to have a lift!

I didn't get the optional wind deflectors, seemed too 'spensive for something I could make myself.

I'll get pix posted just as soon as I get my digital camera sorted out.
Modified by 66mgb at 10:18 PM 5/18/2006

[redmanfx]

One of the things on my "to do" list. Let me know how you like the SPL's a couple of weeks from now after you've driven around for a while. I intend to get the blue ones. $186 for the set right? Anything else you wished you would have addressed but didn't while you swapped out you tension rods?

[66mgb]

Yea, there's much more to do on the front and rear suspension. I also bought the SPL upper links, but ran out of endurance after the tension rod changeout.

I didn't mention that I'm still recovering from a torn left bicep back in March. So some things are still a little challenging.

There's a few rubber bushings that I should replace front and rear. I'll get these changed as soon as time permits.

I haven't installed the Cali springs or blues yet. Been busy trying to do the baseball thing w/ my eldest son.

My mechanic buddy said that he has time to see me on Tuesday, so I'll try and get the springs and struts installed while he tackles the chain guides.

After that, it's off to get her aligned and broken in!

edit: I wanted to add that SPL does some great work. The machine work on these units is some of the finest I've seen.

[redmanfx]

Might as well install the upper control arms when your doing the front Blues and springs. Sounds like you'll have your hands full, but the benefits will be worth it! Don't hurt yourself because those springs are real fun to install I love my blues and cali springs. Your Q will sit very nicely and you'll stare from time to time. Did you get the subframe spacers and collars for the rear?

I think you'll love the Q after all this is done for sure. Good luck with the work and pass the Car on to the baseball champ when it's time. That way when he gets signed by the pros he can return the favor...

[elwesso]

Let me know how it changed the ride... Preferably before you put the upper links in.

[66mgb]

Finally got the old girl out and took her around town. The weather was absolutely glorious - 76, no humidity and sun.

The car feels like steering input is much crisper. Now that the tension rods are a solid link, I feel the road more through the steering wheel. It's not harsh, however. I set both rods the same length as the oem units, so alignment shouldn't be off much.

I didn't get the subframe spacers or collars for the rear. Seems like in a previous thread, someone said that they transmitted too much of the road noise into the cabin. Am I right?

Next are the upper links. These things are some serious hardware. My wife thought I bought new dumbells.

[elwesso]

I didn't get the subframe spacers or collars for the rear. Seems like in a previous thread, someone said that they transmitted too much of the road noise into the cabin. Am I right?

No... They do transmit a tiny bit of noise but youd never notice it if i never posted this message.