Suspension upgrade, Like Modern! Options

[Randal]

Been thinking about what it would take to build in tubes or whatever to allow a complete Boxster suspension swap out on a 914.

It is likely a big project, but maybe not.

Anyone else been thinking about this? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sawzall-smiley.gif)

[Chris Hamilton]

Bob, that suspension system on your car looks very nice. Those really look like fantastic pieces.

It is not however a modern suspension system like we are talking about here. I don't see anywhere in the car that the actual suspension geometry has been changed beyond what can be done with basic upgrades on a 914. The trailing arm shape and pivot points are still in the stock locations, and the front A-arms and struts appear to be basically the same geometry also.

The main thing that I'd like to change on my 914 is the curve described by the rear trailing arms as they move on their pivot, and your car doesn't seem to have addressed that point.

[naro914]

Bob, that suspension system on your car looks very nice. Those really look like fantastic pieces.

It is not however a modern suspension system like we are talking about here. I don't see anywhere in the car that the actual suspension geometry has been changed beyond what can be done with basic upgrades on a 914. The trailing arm shape and pivot points are still in the stock locations, and the front A-arms and struts appear to be basically the same geometry also.

The main thing that I'd like to change on my 914 is the curve described by the rear trailing arms as they move on their pivot, and your car doesn't seem to have addressed that point.

Chris,
You are correct, in fact that only changes in the rear are putting the remote resevoir shocks instead of standard - and much stiffer springs. The big changes are in the front. the geometry can be changed pretty substantially in the front since all the components are very adjustable. We can dial in just about any camber, and any ride height we want, and it handles great. Plus with the coil over set up, we can now easily adjust spring rates too. I noted it above, but one thing I was really surprised with was the steering input changes. With the old system, I had a very hard time turning the wheel when pushing it in and around the garage - 11" wide slicks will do that. Now, I can reach in the window and turn the wheel with one hand, very easily. It almost feels like the car has power steering.

Little story: Nadine and I decided to put the suspension on. I told her the car would run better on the track. So we did. She never asked how much it all costs, until we were heading home after our first track weekend and she said "OK, I love the suspension, feels great. So....how much did it cost?" I said "well, uhh...." she interupted me and said " did it cost a months salary" I said "no, not at all", and she then said "Great, then it was worth it!"

Gotta love a girl that understands the value of money.... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/piratenanner.gif)

Just curious, what do you hope to gain with the upgrade? Knowing the way a Boxster suspension is, I'm not sure I can see how it could fit?