andythejock01wrx

Hi All,

Have had my 01 WRX for 10 days now. I fancy H&S decat centre pipe,
Ecutek3 by Andy F and then Prodrive springs.

My question is about the Prodrive springs : just how hard is the supension when it's been lowered 20mm with these spings ? I don't want to compromise the car's ride quality too much !

I'd appreciate that anybody looking at this thread leaves a wee note with their thoughts - the more opinions the better !!

cheers,

Andy Mc

andythejock01wrx

11 "views" and no comments ! Bump bump bump.

corradoboy

The general opinion seems to be that ride doesn't suffer much at all, and any harshness is outweighed by a more composed car through the bends, leading to a perception of a better ride. The OE STi suspension is often described os "bobby" and the Prodrive springs usually improve things there, but WRX stuff is softer so you will notice it's firmer, but not drastically so. I strongly recommend you also fit the Whiteline 22mm rear adjustable ARB with some solid droplinks. This is arguably the single most rewarding handling mod for the money, removing much of the understeer and increasing cornering stability. It is adjustable, so try the different settings (10 mins max to change) but I prefer the stiffest A few quid spent on the brakes is wise too. Braided lines, better pads (Ferodo) and DOT5.1 fluid is what I have.

andythejock01wrx

Cheers Corradoboy !

Does the ARB come with the droplinks ? What difference do DOT 5.1 brake fluid and braided hoses make ? I can see how better pads would help but can't see the significance of these parts. Can I get away without changing the discs ?

ta again

andythejock01wrx

by the way ~ does the 01 WRX have an ARB as standard ?

corradoboy

Yes, the car has a 19mm (IIRC) bar as standard. When turning in the weight of the car is thrown to the opposite rear corner compressing the suspension there and subsequently lifting the opposing front. This moves the alignment out and reduces the contact patch of the front tyres generating understeer. A stiffer bar resists this weight shift keeping better alignment and surface contact. The OE links are plastic and thus can flex, reducing the effectiveness of the bar, and have been known to snap. Solid ones don't come with the Whiteline bar, but can be added for IRO £40 for steel (perfectly adequate) or £80 for alloy (bling).

The braided lines improve pedal feel by being more resistant to swelling under pressure, and more importantly under high temperature in extreme situations. DOT5.1 fluid has a much higher boiling point and thus is less prone to oxygenate leading to a spongy pedal. The OE discs are OK with uprated pads (I recommend Ferodo DS2000 (possibly rebranded DSPF)) but if/when you need new ones (24mm new, replace at 22mm) go for good quality grooved, but NOT DRILLED.

corradoboy

BTW....CLICKY, CLICKY and CLICKY

andythejock01wrx

Ta very much Corradoboy. I love the fact I can simply ask a question on Scoobynet and quickly find somebody that knows their stuff !

Cheers also for pointing out the group buys : will think about the brake fluid, braided hoses and the ARB. Just had OE pads fitted so they'll have to do till the next set !

Thanks again,

Andy Mc

andythejock01wrx

PS how much brake fluid fo I need ?

corradoboy

Just over 1/2 a litre IIRC, so buy a litre and you'll have some for topping Worth fitting your own pads to save a few bob in future, they really couldn't be easier. Just ask if/when you need a guide.

andythejock01wrx

Ta again

oobster

Hullo there Andy Mc, from another Andy Mc!

I have an 03 'blobeye' WRX fitted with Prodrive springs, and i didnt notice any real difference in ride quality at all.

andythejock01wrx

Hey Andy Mc !!

So were the Prodrive springs worth getting fitted ?

And do you live in Scotland-shire too ?

Andy Mc2