Replacing springs and shocks..what else ?

[JBL1947]

I have a 1998 Forester t/tb import here in the UK. I have had the car almost 7 yrs now and at 90+k miles then I reckon a new suspension set - up is in order !
I will be using the Whiteline control springs together with KYB shocks as I still want to retain a comfortable ride and not rattle the old bones too much :D
Regarding the new set up, is there anything else that I am likely to need to renew whilst I am at it ? Already have Whiteline arb and droplinks but was just wondering if there was any other suspension item that I need to consider replacing ?

Cheers and thanks

Brian

[WayneV]

Hi JBL1947,

The only consideration I would make when replacing the shocks and springs is to replace any worn or failed bushes and other components in the vehicle, have a wheel alignment done afterwards by a reputable suspension workshop and you should be fine.

Cheers,

Wayne
waynev@redranger.com.au

[JBL1947]

Cheers Wayne, will do !

Brian:)

[vxcalais]

Wayne V, is there a real difference between alignments, some places charging $100 for 4 wheel alignment, some charging only $50 for 4 wheel, such as Tyre stores etc....

[WayneV]

Hi vxcalais,

It's an interesting question you've raised and it depends on a few different things.

Firstly, price isn't an indicator of the work done as a poor aligner can charge big $$ and a good technician can be quite reasonable in price.

Initially what you should be looking for is a shop with a 4 wheel laser aligner as this is the most accurate way of aligning the vehicle and they'll be able to print you out a copy of the before and after settings. The next thing you should do is talk to the person who'll be aligning your car, speak to them about your vehicle, what style of driving you do and what their recommendations would be.

You'll also find that some shops focus on certain models and often you'll be able to benefit from their specialised experience.

The final deciding factor really is the same for all businesses, Customer Service. If you approach as store who is genuinely keen to assist and are happy to answer any questions you may have you'll find that the vast majority of the time this will flow on to the quality of work they aim to deliver.

Cheers,

Wayne
waynev@redranger.com.au

[vxcalais]

Thats a fantastic reply Wayne. You hear alot of different things from reputedly good alignment centres who only do 'rear wheel alignments' saying they have the best settings etc and reckon those who only use laser etc etc. Where as you some of the cheaper ones have the 4 wheel kit, charge same as what some charge for a rear wheel only and realise you may have a camber kit etc and still take it into account. I just wanted to know the justification of paying the extra $50, and what for..Thanks.