So I got the full cost sheet for replacing my stock GSR suspension with ITR. The total is a bit higher than expected - almost $1000, not including install.
As I figure it, I can get some H&Rs, KYBs and Energy bushings for about half that.
Everybody says go ITR, but honestly, that's more than I want to spend. Is there a cheap place to get the parts (got my cost from A&H), and just how much better than aftermarket is the ITR setup? Mine's mainly a daily driver with almost worn out suspension, and I mainly want something fun. Won't race, auto-X, etc.
I've asked a similar question, but as I get closer to the actual purchase, I come up with more!
Thanks for the help. I just want to be sure I want what I get.

 

I guess I should clarify - A cheap place to get the stock ITR parts, not aftermarket. You guys already pointed me to shox.com, groupbuy, etc. All good. Or, if anyone has good, used parts, I'd consider that too.
Just trying to make an informed decision!

 

I would say just go with aftermarket parts for the GSR. The ITR parts aren't that much better if they are even better. First, you said the ITR parts will cost more. Second, remember that those suspension parts are tuned for the ITR's chassis. Third, if they are so great, then why do a lot of ITR guys put in new suspensions too. Also if you aren't even going to do any kinda racing, then any subtle changes between any of the suspension parts won't matter cause you probably won't be able to tell the difference. My advice is just do a search and see what setups that most people are running and see what fits your budget. Go with what's tried and true and you won't go wrong.

 

i would say just get aftermarket stuff too...or used stuff

but if you want OEM...here's a contact

Trey Commander

Import Specialists
Tel: 615-586-7959
Email: trey@import-specialists.com
AOL IM: Import Specialist http://www.import-specialists.com

 

Hi,

Rather than look for brand names, why not look at their qualities as a product. The ITR springs have a spring rate of 246 front, 140-246 progressive rate rear. Why not find some springs with similar spring rates and get some adjustable shocks.

If you want neutral handling, more neutral than a Type-R, get H&R Sport springs, (280 front, 280 rear), then add some Koni Sport shocks (adjustable). Then top it all off with a Type-R rear sway bar with a BSQ/Beak kit. And there you go, you have Type-R suspension except you have adjustable shocks.

I don't have the US pricing but I know you're getting much better parts than OEM Honda stuff.

Good luck man.

 

I just wanted to add that I went road racing for the first time at Gingerman raceway the other day. I had my shocks set at 2f/4r since I was expecting my car to understeer a little (like most front wheel drives). My friend who was an instructor for the event drove my car and said that my car actually was bordering on oversteer and the rear kept wanting to come out. We ended up with the shocks set at 3f/3r and then he said that it was very neutal feeling. I'd probably try to tune in a little oversteer for autocrossing later though. So adjustable shocks are useful. I was going to upgrade to a 21mm swaybar, but I don't think I'm going to now since I'm pretty neutral with only a 19mm.
And I'm currently using the 19mm Neuspeed Rear swaybar ( paid ~$250), KYB AGX (~$340) and H&R OE springs(~$140) for a grand total of ~$750 spent.


[Modified by red97gsr, 6:34 PM 8/27/2001]

 

Just a suggestion but:

Koni Yellows
Eibach Prokit
Neuspeed 19 mm rear sway
ITR front sway
ITR strut tower bar

Not everything on the ITR is anything better than aftermarket. What do you think we do? Replace our stuff or mod it with stock OEM stuff? No way!!!

Good luck,

A.

 

Although the Type R suspension is very good, its not solely due to the springs and shocks. The Type R and has a reinforced frame as well as a Limited Slip Differential. I suggest that you look into getting aftermarket parts before you go with the Type R setup and buy shocks and springs that will not be as good as getting aftermarket ones.

There are plenty of products that will suit your need for just daily driving/weekend warrior. As for shocks, I assume you will not be needing adjustable shocks, so you could purchase a set of Bilstein Heavy Duty shocks, or if you would like a cheaper solution to adjustability then you could purchase the Tokico shocks. Or if you wouldnt mind spending the money on what I believe to be the best shock out there, you could buy the Koni Sport Adjustable shocks (Yellows).

I believe that you will ultimately be happier with an aftermarket spring/shock combo and so will your wallet. With the saved money you could purchase a Type R 22mm rear sway bar and the mounting kit for roughly $60 +/- and that setup should be more than enough to keep you happy.

 

I think this is what I wanted to hear. The setup I was initially looking at was the H&R Sports with Koni reds, Energy bushings, and an ITR rear swaybar. I hope to replace the front swaybar and eventually get an ITR LSD. For my purposes, that should complete the handling mods.
Thanks for the input. It's just that I got a lot of people recommedning I go with the ITR setup over aftermarket. It seems there's a lot of debate on the topic, but I'm going for a balance of practical and fun.
Thanx again...

 

The ITR front sway bar is the same as the GSR, so don't bother replacing that. As far as shocks, go, the Bilstein HD will not give the same amt. of control over other shocks b/c they are not that stiff to begin with. If you get springs stiffer that H&R OE the shocks won't dampen them properly. I know b/c I have them on my car. If I ever get around to taking them out I'll send them in for revalving since they have a lifetime warranty. You could get Bilsteins revalved from http://www.hotshox.com; Just tell them what is the car gonna be used for and they'll set you up.

Had I known better, before I tried anything else I'd try the ITR shocks and springs (used) with the rear sway bar before trying anything. It all depends what you're gonna use the car for.

 

that 1,000 what exactly did that include? cause i got the ITR springs, shocks, LCA's and an energy suspension bushing kit for 450.00 everything was new except for the shocks