Suspension upgrades?

[regalfriend]

Mine is a 97.5 Regal GS 127,000 miles. i put in Monroe sensatrac's in the front. I never replaced the bushings. The ride got a little better, i still feel a jolt when going over small bumps. Looking at the upper strut mounts from the engine compartment, they are cracked and some of the rubber is missing. Since i am not happy w/ Monroe i plan on changing to KYB GR2, all 4 this time. I want to replace everything that is involved w/ this since i dont want to ever do this again. I know that the upper strut mount has to be done but need to know what else should be done. I have heard of a "bump stop". And also heard of a "spring cradle". My rear stabilizer link has to be done too. On ZZ Performance i have seen a stronger rear sway bar. At this point i am trying to tighten the suspension to ride like new, or better. I do want it a little stiffer than stock but not a bone jarring ride. Any idea's would greatly be appreciated. i have heard of poly bushings.... any input?

[BNaylor]

The KYBs are a good choice over Monroes. They will firm up everything. I'd replace any strut mounting hardware/bushings that looks questionable. Also, check the strut coil spring height. New struts will be worthless if the coil springs are worn out. The polyurethane stabilizer bushings may not help the basic ride but will improve the cornering and curve handling. Regals are soft in this area. Another suggestion is to install a strut/body brace in the trunk area between the struts. Similar to the one you have stock mounted between the front strut towers.

[regalfriend]

Thanks Bob. You mentioned me having a stock front strut brace. I bought my car used at 75000 and mine never had it. I know there is usually a rubber boot that covers the top of the strut mount. I dont have that either. i guess i need to get the front brace too.. Also you mentioned to check the spring hight. I never did that before. Looking at the car on a level surface it seems to have alot of clearance in the front wheel wells. in the rear it looks lower, but i think thats the design.. With 4 KYB's, 4 new strut mounts, stabilizer links, 2 strut tower bars, etc.... This will probobly run me $6-700 total for parts.

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by regalfriend

Thanks Bob. You mentioned me having a stock front strut brace. I bought my car used at 75000 and mine never had it. I know there is usually a rubber boot that covers the top of the strut mount. I dont have that either. i guess i need to get the front brace too.. Also you mentioned to check the spring hight. I never did that before. Looking at the car on a level surface it seems to have alot of clearance in the front wheel wells. in the rear it looks lower, but i think thats the design.. With 4 KYB's, 4 new strut mounts, stabilizer links, 2 strut tower bars, etc.... This will probobly run me $6-700 total for parts.

You're welcome. Yeah maybe the 97 - 98 Regals didn't come with the front strut brace but all '99 and up GS/LS have them from the factory. It is not that difficult of a mod and would be beneficial. On checking body height at all four points GM specifies up to 1/2 " difference being permissable.

On the coil spring height you just measure the length extended like at the stage where you have removed it from the strut. In the past I had one that was 1" off and replaced it. I have the specs for body height and spring length someplace if you need it. Just let me know.

It will cost some bucks but probably worth it if you plan on keeping her for awhile. Good luck!