suspension shopping list

[Alejandro__]

Hey guys,
When I was in replacing my brake pads I noticed that the bushings around my front control arms were shredded... plus when I was working on some rust last winter someone asked if my car was salvaged from the bottom of the ocean (rust)...
So I figure I've got some work to do ahead of me. I've been reading up on what I need to do, but I was hoping you guys could help me put together a shopping list. I don't need specifics yet... once I have the item in question I can go off and do some research for each part.

Everything is stock under there right now. I realize this is a bit of a nebulous request but hopefully it can get me started in the right direction. The goal is that when I do finally start, I don't get started then say 'huh... guess I need a johnson rod' and have to wait a week while that part is ordered/sourced.

At a minimum, I figure I have to do the control arms...

So that's:
control arms
hardware (comes with?)

Then lets assume I'd like to also do something about the suspension while I'm in there.

So that's:
Coilovers (most likely)


Seems like a short list...
What am I missing? Thanks guys
a

[reverse.rake]

if funds allow then i would do new front strut mounts and maybe even replace the bushings on rear control arms while its already being worked on? just a thought

[Alejandro__]

if funds allow then i would do new front strut mounts and maybe even replace the bushings on rear control arms while its already being worked on? just a thought

Great... that's what I'm talking about.

List
Control arms (comes with hardware)
Coilovers (most likely)
Front Strut mounts (x2)

I've never replaced bushings... do you need a press for those?

I suspect I won't know till I get in there if my cv joints are okay?
a

[christianb5s4]

I did this last year, I refreshed the entire suspension. Here's my full list:

- All new control arms in the front
- New control arm hardware
- H&R premium coilovers
- 034 density line upper strut mounts
- poly front sway bar end links

Optional if you want to go all the way:

- Upgraded rear sway bar
- Rear sway bar reinforcements
- Rear metal updated sway bar end links

[MarlinFoundNemo]

What difference do upgraded sway bar end links make?

[jimmer009]

Bushing are major part of the suspension. The best way to remove bushing because you can't always get them to a press is a air hammer. I have a blunt tip on the end that is perfect. But a hammer won't work as the rubber and just flexes. But I have had great luck with the air.

[christianb5s4]

What difference do upgraded sway bar end links make?

For the front, you'll have a noticeable difference in how direct the steering feels and how responsive it is (especially near on-center). Rears are to replace the flimsy plastic ones that come stock.

[Alejandro__]

For the front, you'll have a noticeable difference in how direct the steering feels and how responsive it is (especially near on-center). Rears are to replace the flimsy plastic ones that come stock.

What was the total damage ($) if you don't mind me asking?


Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Audizine mobile app

[01nogaro]

Im selling upper control arms on Panjo...

[Alejandro__]

Seems like ecs has complete kits for $221.96 (vaico) seems like a good deal. Anyone have any experience with vaico?

[erykv1]

Dont buy a cheap control arm kit, you will have to replace them twice as often.

[Alejandro__]

Are there brands to steer clear of? Or is it more of a price point thing? Ie if its below $x its no good?

[Audi_From_Hell]

The failure of cheaper control arms usually doesn't come from low quality bushings, it's usually installer error when tightening the control arms and they aren't done at ride height causing pre load on the bushing at all times.

[Alejandro__]

Good note.... I'll keep that in mind.

[christianb5s4]

What was the total damage ($) if you don't mind me asking?


Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Audizine mobile app

- All new FCP Euro control arms: $200 from AZ forum member
- Lemforder Sport tie rod ends: $82
- New control arm hardware: $40
- New H&R premium coilovers: $950 from AZ forum member
- 034 density line upper strut mounts: $50
- poly front sway bar end links: $50 from AZ forum member
- Alignment: $140

Next on my list:

- Install the Hotchkis rear sway bar reinforcement brackets I have
- Get an 034 rear sway bar

The failure of cheaper control arms usually doesn't come from low quality bushings, it's usually installer error when tightening the control arms and they aren't done at ride height causing pre load on the bushing at all times.

Exactly, you can get brand new OEM VW control arms and they can fail just as fast as any other if the bolts aren't torqued down with the suspension at ride height. Also, I highly recommend FCP Euro and many others have had great long term success with them.