Transformed CQ: coil-overs/big brakes

[Harrison Blackwood <killjoy@dnai.com>]

Yet another CQ with the 2B coil-over conversion, but with the addition
of 2B's 13" big brake kit.

The change in handling/driving responsiveness is well worth the cost. I
definitely agree with Eric R's post from August about the transformation
in handling the coil-overs provide.(extremely summarized) Reduced body
roll, brake dive eliminated, and quicker steering response. The tires
are now a limiting factor. Harshness over stock is up to what spring
rates you use in addition to any other suspension changes.

I went with 375lbs front, 350lbs rear. I had H&R's - for sale.
Currently: 17" BBS wheels, 225/45 Dunlop SP8000, Bilstein shocks-short
ones, Delrin bushings, front & rear strut braces. All together this
makes the ride a bit harsh for some but handling is great, no more mushy
feeling. The car goes exactly where I aim it. I like a stiff chassis. It
all comes down to what kind of feeling your looking for. Roll bar next
month.

As for the brakes, I was tired of the brake fade after an hour or so of
spirited driving in the twisty Santa Cruz Mts around Skyline ( SF Bay
Area ). 2B's stage 2 big brake kit comes with a Brembo 4 piston caliper
and I went with a 13" slotted rotor. They don't use cross drilled rotors
due to the loss of rotor integrity from all the holes. Fitment can be a
problem depending on wheel type. You may need some kind of shim/spacer.
The inside edge of my BBS RX's spokes are extremely close to the
caliper. Andrew Bennett said TSW Hocks fit better, must be a slight
difference on the inside. As for function - great. I assume it's a
similar feel to those with Big Reds. After a couple of hours of hard
driving up & down the Santa Cruz Mts no noticeable brake fade. The brake
pedal feels a bit heavier than before requiring more pressure to engage
but when they do they really stick. Takes a little getting use to
depending on driving style. With the coil-overs I tended to drive/brake
harder than before and the brakes and suspension held up. They're a lot
stronger than my driving ability.

I had the coil-overs and brakes installed at 2 Bennett. I'll have some
brake pics up soon. Still would like 350 horses.

--
Harrison Blackwood
Los Gatos, CA
1990 lago blue CQ 20v
http://www.dnai.com/~killjoy