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Upgrading the handling of your VA WRX can significantly enhance your driving experience, especially when it comes to performance and comfort. Two popular upgrades among enthusiasts are Bilstein coilovers and Hotchkis sway bars. In this article, we will explore the benefits of these upgrades, the installation process, and tips for optimizing your setup.
Why Upgrade to Bilstein Coilovers?
Bilstein coilovers are renowned for their superior performance and adjustability. They offer a range of benefits that can drastically improve the handling characteristics of your VA WRX.
- Improved Handling: Bilstein coilovers provide better grip and stability during cornering.
- Adjustable Ride Height: You can customize the ride height to suit your preferences and driving style.
- Enhanced Comfort: They offer a comfortable ride without sacrificing performance.
- Durability: Bilstein products are known for their long-lasting quality and resistance to wear.
Installing Bilstein Coilovers
The installation of Bilstein coilovers requires some mechanical knowledge and tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
- Gather Tools and Equipment: You will need a jack, jack stands, wrenches, and possibly a spring compressor.
- Remove the Wheels: Start by lifting the car and removing the wheels to access the suspension components.
- Disconnect the Strut Assembly: Unbolt the strut assembly from the hub and the top mount.
- Install the New Coilovers: Position the new coilovers in place and secure them with the appropriate bolts.
- Adjust Ride Height: Set the desired ride height before tightening all bolts.
- Reattach Wheels: Once everything is secured, reattach the wheels and lower the vehicle.
Benefits of Hotchkis Sway Bars
Hotchkis sway bars are designed to reduce body roll and improve the overall handling of your WRX. They play a crucial role in enhancing the performance of your vehicle.
- Reduced Body Roll: Hotchkis sway bars minimize body lean during turns, providing a more stable ride.
- Improved Cornering: They enhance cornering performance, allowing for sharper turns and better control.
- Easy Installation: The sway bars can typically be installed without extensive modifications.
- Increased Confidence: With better handling, drivers can feel more confident behind the wheel.
Installing Hotchkis Sway Bars
Installing Hotchkis sway bars can be a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a successful installation.
- Gather Necessary Tools: You will need a jack, jack stands, and a wrench set.
- Lift the Vehicle: Use the jack to lift your WRX and secure it with jack stands.
- Remove the Old Sway Bars: Unbolt the existing sway bars from the mounting points.
- Install the Hotchkis Sway Bars: Position the new sway bars and secure them with the provided hardware.
- Double-Check Everything: Ensure all bolts are tightened and the sway bars are properly aligned.
- Lower the Vehicle: Once completed, lower the car and test the new setup.
Optimizing Your Setup
After installing Bilstein coilovers and Hotchkis sway bars, it’s essential to optimize your setup for the best performance. Here are some tips:
- Alignment: Get a professional wheel alignment to ensure proper handling and tire wear.
- Test Drive: Take your WRX for a test drive and make adjustments as necessary.
- Monitor Performance: Keep an eye on how your vehicle handles and make changes to settings if needed.
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly check and maintain your suspension components for optimal performance.
Upgrading to Bilstein coilovers and Hotchkis sway bars can transform your VA WRX into a more responsive and enjoyable vehicle. With proper installation and optimization, you can experience significant improvements in handling and performance.