[s-cars] Steering damper valving comparison FOX vs. C4

[Dave Ellis]

Hi Todd,

I replaced my C4 steering damper with the VW Fox part two years ago in 
an attempt to firm up the vague steering feel a bit, figuring that with 
175,000km on the odometer it was probably time.  The VW Fox damper is 
certainly much cheaper than the C4 part.

Anyways, the original factory damper as it turned out had already been 
replaced at some point, just not documented by the previous owner (but 
was probably done when the steering rack was replaced).

So the C4 damper that was in there was as it turned out still good, and 
upon comparing it to the Fox steering damper appeared to be only 
slightly stiffer, in the order of about 10% (I used a simple hook & 
spring scale to try and measure rebound and compression with limited 
success/accuracy).

I installed the Fox damper anyways, and found no real noticeable 
difference in the steering feel, with or without the servotronic relay 
installed.

I later tracked down and solved some of my steering issues to semi-worn 
tie rod ends and by adjusting the lash on the steering rack.  That said, 
I still find the steering feedback on the S4 to be much inferior to the 
feel and response of my '99.5 A4 and an earlier Subaru Impreza RS.  I 
keep hoping someone will come out with an improved aftermarket steering 
rack for our cars.

If you steering damper is shot, I'd definitely recommend using the Fox 
part.  I've experienced no adverse effects from using it, and it fits 
the C4 steering rack just fine.

-Dave


todd at owensport.com wrote:
> Has anyone determined the Fox damper to be stiffer or softer than the C4 damper.
> 
> Todd
>