Another 5 Lug Conversion Question, Which front end? Options

[mharrison]

So the brake lines would require some adapter or a custom braided line? Are the ends different or do you just need different lengths and/or positions?

[Brad Roberts]

It is how the lines are held to the struts (you know that little clip that can be a bitch to get off ??LOL)

The 914 fleible lines are different than the 911 flexible lines.



B

[Eric_Shea]

Try to get the entire front suspension (a-arms, calipers and all). I've seen them go for $150 on up. This way you'll get the 19mm t-bars as well.

I would go with the 73 because I'm not a big fan of the under-body anti-sway bars but... if you're just going struts then get the later with the A-Calipers (what Brad's recommending).

The only problem I'd see there is the balance of the system with the stock rear brakes. Some have taken out the p-valve and others have gone a step further by installing an ajustable bias lever. Others who have a similar setup can weigh in but it seems like that may work. However, when I stepped up to that sized caliper up front I installed the appropriate 911 rear caliper as well. Not one to second guess the Porsche engineers. Then you'll need a parking brake.

If'n it was me (which it aint)? I'd go with that complete 73 911 front suspension. I'd use the 911 M-calipers (good enough for a 914-6 and a good match to your 2.1) and retain the stock rear calipers with the parking brake. I'd also ditch the p-valve in favor of a "T" and call it a day.

My $0.02 (IMG:style_emoticons/default/beer.gif)

[mack914]

I put a complete '83 sc front end on, maintained the original rear brakes without any issues. It was amazing the difference in the front end, handling and braking. Since the five lug conversion had already been done, no reason to change out the rears.

[Eric_Shea]

Stock p-valve and all? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/blink.gif)

Not doubting or anything... I think that's cool. It's just hard to believe that the rears are even working.

Good for you! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smilie_pokal.gif)

[bondo]

Stay away from ANY of the Bilstein strut combo's. They are all wearing out at the top. They are green in color.

NOW you tell me (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) I've got the greenies, how do I tell if they're worn out at the top?

[anthony]

Brad is there a way to see that a strut is bent before you put it on the car/alignment rack?

[Eric_Shea]

There's a fancy alignment jig the factory has. Pics are all over the factory manuals. I've never seen one, you usually find out when the alignment shop says they can't get the negative camber out. They sag over the years.

Call your local dealer and see if they have the jig... all they need to do is drop the strut in the jig and you'll have your answer.