I just acquired an '04 Si w/80k miles. Stock ride height and I intend to keep it there or close to it. Street use only. I've read most of the stickies and I think I'm going to replace the (original) struts with yellow Konis per Mustclime. The rear shocks were replaced at 40k by the previous owner and seem fine. I don't think I'm going to jump on the full ASpec conversion at this time but I'm certainly willing to listen to arguments for going down that path immediately.

The suspension bushing issue is the one confounding me as there is so much contradictory information out there. Energy Performance black v. Hardrace v. "keep the stock bushings as '04 and '05 spec stock bushings were stiff enough." Is there anyone with actual experience with all three that can parse this out? I want to avoid adding new maintenance worries or squeaks.

 

which bushings? everything or just control arms?

going from the stock front control arm bushings to energry suspension was night and day. i didnt really feel any increase in stiffness or harshness like some people complain about and the reduction in wheel hop was very noticeable. the car also felt more connected to the steering wheel, meaning it went where i wanted it with ease.

 

I was thinking just the control arm bushings and possibly only the lowers.

 

the only problem with those bushings is they're a pain in the *** to install. i'd suggest inspecting the ball joints and replacing those too if needed.

 

Thanks, I'm starting to think that I should put this off until spring 2014 and completely go through the front suspension at that time rather than trying to do it piecemeal.

 

that's usually the way to do, acquire all the parts and refinish everything when doing the installs.