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Can anyone tell me if the metal swaybar endlinks that come on the 2002 Coupe are the same as what I'd get if I bought a Z06 Sway bar kit? I don't want to pay for new endlinks if I already have them.
Also, can anyone with some experience compare the Z06 bars to the Hotchkis or GM T1 sway bars (in terms of how they affect the car's handling)? I'm mostly interested in reducing body roll for around town driving, and possibly doing a little for-fun autocrossing. My car has the base suspension, and my plan is to install some Bilstein sport shocks, and some stiffer sway bars. Any advice is welcome and appreciated!
Not sure if the '02 Base susp. end links you have are the same as the Z06 or not, but the sway bars, bushings & end links are all purchased seperately anyway, as far as I've seen. The end links themselves aren't expensive anyway. So you could easily add them later. The heavy duty adjustable metal end-links that are for the T1s are loud & creaky for everyday driving. Unless you are going to race regularly, the T1s are overkill. I think you'd be happier just upgrading to the Z06 parts. You can call me at the shop for more details. The #'s in my Sig.
Re: Question about Z06 Swaybar/endlinks. (DARTH VETTER)
I did buy the Z06 Stabilizer kit from Tom at Fichtner Chevrolet (www.fichtnerchevrolet.com) (406-628-4618) and they are the aluminum links and must improved for installation. Both the front and rear links are aluminum. I have a 1999 coupe with F45 and the ride is much improved. Installed by Brad's Custom Auto here in Seattle, WA (www.BradsCustomAuto.com). They did a great installation, that is no clanking or squeaking.
Re: Question about Z06 Swaybar/endlinks. (ISLANDBOY2)
I had the base suspension also then upgraded to the Z-51 shocks and sway bars. This was a big improvement but I still wanted less body roll. So I upgraded to the Hotchkis setup with the provided adjustable metal end links and now I am happy. There is no noise from this setup, the car feels much tighter and responds to steering input quicker. The is less slip angle from the front tires in a bend and the cars more overall grip. I'm sorry I bought the Z-51 bars because of the waste of money. Go straight to the Hotchkis setup and you won't be dissapointed
Re: Question about Z06 Swaybar/endlinks. (turboo2u)
Very good to know. I have Z51, and although it handles quite well, especailly after a bit of lowering, I still want to go faster around curves. Did you notice much of a difference in ride quality going from Z51 to Hotchkis?
Re: Question about Z06 Swaybar/endlinks. (turboo2u)
I think I'm giong to try the Z06 bars first. Since I have the metal end links already on my '02, I just ordered the Z06 sway bars and isolaters from Fitchner for ~ $170. If I still don't like it, I can always put on some Hotchkis bars down the road. Thanks for all the advice guys!