Trans Am Suspension and Brakes for Handling the Increased Power: Recommended Upgrades

by

Trans Am Suspension and Brakes for Handling the Increased Power: Recommended Upgrades

The Pontiac Trans Am is a classic American muscle car known for its powerful engine and aggressive styling. As enthusiasts modify their vehicles for increased performance, it becomes essential to upgrade the suspension and braking systems to handle the added power effectively. In this article, we will explore recommended upgrades for the Trans Am’s suspension and brakes.

Why Upgrade Suspension and Brakes?

Upgrading the suspension and brakes of a Trans Am is crucial for several reasons:

  • Improved Handling: Enhanced suspension components provide better grip and stability during cornering.
  • Increased Safety: Upgraded brakes reduce stopping distances, making the car safer at higher speeds.
  • Enhanced Ride Quality: Modern suspension systems can offer a more comfortable driving experience.
  • Performance Optimization: Tailoring the suspension and brakes to match increased power ensures balanced performance.

When upgrading the suspension of a Trans Am, consider the following components:

Coilovers

Coilover kits allow for adjustable ride height and damping settings, providing flexibility for different driving conditions. Popular options include:

  • BC Racing BR Series
  • KW Variant 3
  • Ridetech Coilover System

Sway Bars

Upgrading sway bars can significantly reduce body roll and improve cornering performance. Look for:

  • Hotchkis Performance Sway Bar Kit
  • Whiteline Adjustable Sway Bars

Upgraded Bushings

Replacing factory rubber bushings with polyurethane bushings enhances responsiveness and durability. Consider:

  • Energy Suspension Performance Bushings
  • Prothane Polyurethane Bushings

To complement the suspension upgrades, enhancing the braking system is equally important. Here are some key components to consider:

Performance Brake Pads

Upgrading to performance brake pads can improve stopping power and reduce brake fade. Recommended options include:

  • Hawk Performance HPS Pads
  • EBC Greenstuff Pads
  • Wilwood BP-10 Pads

High-Performance Rotors

Installing slotted or drilled rotors can enhance heat dissipation and improve braking performance. Look for:

  • Baer EradiSpeed Rotors
  • Power Stop Slotted Rotors

Upgraded Brake Lines

Stainless steel brake lines provide better pedal feel and reduce expansion under pressure. Consider:

  • Russell Stainless Steel Brake Lines
  • StopTech Stainless Steel Lines

Conclusion

Upgrading the suspension and brakes of your Trans Am is vital for handling increased power effectively. By investing in quality components, you can enhance your vehicle’s performance, safety, and overall driving experience. Whether you’re hitting the track or cruising on the highway, these upgrades will ensure that your Trans Am handles like a dream.