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The Mitsubishi Eclipse has long been a favorite among car enthusiasts, known for its sporty design and performance capabilities. One of the key aspects that can significantly enhance its driving experience is the suspension system. Upgrading your suspension can improve handling and cornering stability, making your Eclipse even more enjoyable to drive. In this article, we will explore various performance suspension modifications that can take your Mitsubishi Eclipse to the next level.
Understanding Suspension Systems
Before diving into specific modifications, it’s essential to understand the role of the suspension system in your vehicle. The suspension system is responsible for:
- Providing stability and control during driving.
- Absorbing shocks from the road for a smoother ride.
- Maintaining tire contact with the road surface.
A well-tuned suspension system enhances your car’s performance, especially in terms of handling and cornering. Let’s explore some popular performance suspension mods for the Mitsubishi Eclipse.
1. Upgraded Coilovers
Coilovers are a popular choice for performance enthusiasts. They combine the spring and shock absorber into a single unit, allowing for adjustable ride height and damping. Here are some benefits:
- Improved handling due to adjustable stiffness.
- Lowering the center of gravity for better cornering.
- Customization options for different driving styles.
When selecting coilovers for your Mitsubishi Eclipse, consider reputable brands that offer a balance between performance and comfort.
2. Sway Bars
Sway bars, also known as anti-roll bars, play a crucial role in reducing body roll during cornering. Upgrading to larger sway bars can provide several advantages:
- Enhanced stability while turning.
- Improved handling response.
- Reduced understeer and oversteer tendencies.
Installing sway bars is a relatively straightforward modification that can yield significant improvements in your Eclipse’s cornering performance.
3. Strut Tower Braces
Strut tower braces connect the two strut towers in the engine bay, increasing chassis rigidity. This modification can lead to better handling characteristics:
- Reduced flex during cornering.
- Improved steering response.
- Enhanced overall stability.
Strut tower braces are often an affordable and effective way to improve your Eclipse’s handling without extensive modifications.
4. Upgraded Bushings
Bushings are the rubber or polyurethane components that connect various suspension parts. Upgrading to performance bushings can enhance your suspension’s responsiveness:
- Improved feedback from the road.
- Reduced deflection during hard cornering.
- Increased durability compared to stock bushings.
Consider replacing worn-out bushings with high-performance options to achieve a more connected driving experience.
5. Adjustable Camber Kits
Camber refers to the angle of the wheels in relation to the road. An adjustable camber kit allows you to fine-tune this angle for optimal tire contact during cornering:
- Improved tire wear and grip.
- Enhanced cornering performance.
- Customization for track or street driving.
Investing in an adjustable camber kit can help you achieve the perfect setup for your driving needs.
6. Performance Shocks and Struts
Upgrading your shocks and struts is another effective way to enhance handling. Performance shocks and struts offer better damping control, which can lead to:
- Improved ride quality over rough surfaces.
- Enhanced stability during high-speed maneuvers.
- Better overall handling characteristics.
When selecting performance shocks and struts, ensure they are compatible with your suspension setup for optimal results.
7. Lightweight Wheels
While not a direct suspension modification, lightweight wheels can significantly affect your car’s handling and performance. Benefits include:
- Reduced unsprung weight for better suspension response.
- Improved acceleration and braking performance.
- Enhanced aesthetics and customization options.
Choosing the right wheels can complement your suspension mods and enhance the overall driving experience.
Conclusion
Upgrading the suspension on your Mitsubishi Eclipse is a fantastic way to enhance handling and cornering stability. From coilovers to sway bars, each modification offers unique benefits that can transform your driving experience. Consider your driving style and preferences when selecting the right mods for your vehicle. With the right performance suspension upgrades, your Eclipse can deliver an exhilarating and responsive ride.