Old Library

Hey, gang,

I will attempt to answer all your questions regarding the new GC setup on
my '97 GTI VR6.  Everything listed below was distilled from the MANY
questions I've received since installing the kit.  Since there were so
many inquiries, I'm just going to post the whole sheebang to the list,
instead of replying individually:

1)   The kit was installed on the Spax 24 way adjustable shocks/struts.
     No modifications to the existing struts/shocks are necessary.  It is
     possible to remove the existing spring perch from the front strut
     housing, if the clearance is required for wheels/tires.
2)   The previous springs were ND/NS progressive sport lowering springs.
3)   The total range of height adjustment is around 2.5-3.0".  I don't know if
     the system starts at full factory height when adjusted to it's highest
     setting.  Also, the Spax rear shocks already are a threaded body type shock
     for height adjustment, so the GC threaded sleeve is redundant.  ND worked
     with GC over the phone during the installation, and GC will be coming out
     with a Spax specific kit, which should save a few bucks, because it will use
     the existing threaded body of the rear Spax shock to support the spring
     perch, instead of the GC sleeve with threads.
4)   My car also has NS 25/28mm bars, NS front stress bar, and I'm running 1.0
     deg negative camber with 0" toe.  I have only run the stock wheels and GA's
     with this setup, and the GA's have never worked better (they actually stick
     if you keep them square to the road).  The RC's and new 225/40ZR-16 SP's go
     back on today.
5)   The GC kit runs $399 plus installation (ND did mine - 5 hours @ $78 = $390).
6)   As far as I know, the GC kit will work with all VW struts and shocks,
     regardless of adjustability.  The problem with shocks like the Boge is they
     may not have enough dampening ability to control the GC springs (325 in/lb
     front, 225 in/lb rear).  I would go with Spax, Koni, or Bilstein Sports, in
     that order (DANGER! OPINION ALERT!).
7)   The reason I chose to change to linear rate springs is that, for me, a
     progressive spring is too soft in the early stages of compression/rebound.
     The linear springs take an immediate set when entering a corner, or
     negotiating low frequency bumps/dips.  You do lose some ride quality,
     especially over higher frequency washboard type stuff, but the tires remain
     firmly attached to the road, anyway.
8)   Now, after several hundred miles with the GC setup, I may decide to go with
     lower rate springs for street use.  I'm driving the car to SoCA for the LBGP
     with 2 adults and one 85 lb dog plus luggage/ice chest, etc., and will
     reserve final judgment until I return.  If my teeth are still intact, and my
     wife/dog don't disown me, I may stay with the 325/225 springs.  If it turns
     out to be too brutal, I may try 300/200, or 275/175.  GC recommends a 100
     in/lb spread, front to rear, for the VR6 cars.
9)   If anyone has an interest, or further technical questions regarding GC's
     kits, you may direct them to Vic Sias at New Dimensions (&#118;ic&#64;newdimensions<img src=/i/dc.gif border=0 width=35 height=15>,
     408 980-1691 ext. 102), or myself.  The owner of GC is a close personal friend
     of Vic, so you will have a direct line to the company.
10)  GC is coming out with their own shocks/strut inserts.  They will be double
     adjustable (compression/rebound), and will be owner rebuildable.  They
     should be a lot cheaper than the other alternatives (Penske, Carrera, Koni).

Did I miss anything?  Oh, yea: http://www.ground-control.com/