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The Subaru WRX is renowned for its performance and handling capabilities. However, to truly maximize the potential of a built engine, upgrading the suspension and braking systems is essential. This article provides tips on how to enhance your WRX’s handling through effective suspension and braking upgrades.
Understanding Suspension Upgrades
The suspension system is crucial for maintaining tire contact with the road, which directly affects handling and stability. Upgrading your WRX’s suspension can dramatically improve its performance. Here are some key components to consider:
- Coilovers: Adjustable coilover systems allow for fine-tuning of ride height and damping settings, providing a customizable driving experience.
- Sway Bars: Upgrading to stiffer sway bars reduces body roll during cornering, enhancing stability and responsiveness.
- Strut Braces: These braces increase chassis rigidity, improving handling precision and steering feedback.
- Bushings: Replacing factory rubber bushings with polyurethane options can improve responsiveness and reduce flex.
Choosing the Right Coilovers
When selecting coilovers for your WRX, consider the following factors:
- Adjustability: Look for coilovers with adjustable ride height and damping to tailor the setup to your driving style.
- Spring Rates: Choose spring rates that suit your driving conditions, whether it’s daily driving or track use.
- Build Quality: Opt for reputable brands known for durability and performance.
Enhancing Braking Performance
Upgrading the braking system is just as important as improving the suspension. A powerful engine requires an equally capable braking system to ensure safety and performance. Consider the following upgrades:
- Brake Pads: High-performance brake pads provide better grip and heat resistance, improving stopping power.
- Rotors: Upgrading to slotted or drilled rotors can enhance heat dissipation and reduce brake fade.
- Brake Lines: Stainless steel braided brake lines improve pedal feel and reduce flex under pressure.
- Calipers: Upgrading to larger calipers can increase clamping force, resulting in shorter stopping distances.
Choosing the Right Brake Pads
Selecting the right brake pads is essential for achieving optimal performance. Here are some tips:
- Material: Consider ceramic or semi-metallic pads for a balance of performance and everyday drivability.
- Heat Resistance: Look for pads that can withstand high temperatures without losing effectiveness.
- Noise Levels: Some pads are designed to minimize noise, which can be beneficial for daily driving.
Fine-Tuning Your Setup
After upgrading the suspension and braking systems, fine-tuning your setup is crucial. This involves adjusting ride height, damping settings, and brake balance to achieve the desired handling characteristics. Consider the following:
- Alignment: Ensure proper wheel alignment to prevent uneven tire wear and maximize handling.
- Damping Settings: Experiment with different damping settings to find the right balance between comfort and performance.
- Brake Bias: Adjust brake balance to achieve optimal performance during hard braking scenarios.
Conclusion
Upgrading your WRX’s suspension and braking systems is essential for maximizing the performance of a built engine. By carefully selecting components and fine-tuning your setup, you can achieve sharp handling and improved safety. Whether you’re on the track or the street, these upgrades will enhance your driving experience.