Suspension Strut tower brace
#1
Strut tower brace
I have a 2003 R53 with the sport suspension package. I've already increased the size of the rear sway bar. So my question is will the car benefit with the installation of a front strut tower brace. I've installed M7's front shock plates and they will have to be removed to install the tower brace. Pro's and cons would be helpful
#2
#4
#6
IMO it does make a difference. You will be surprised on how it stops a lot of squeaks and rattles too. The RSB is one of the best mods to do to a MINI. I have never heard of anyone on dry roads or track ever spinning their MINI around because it was too stiff. I have a 22mm adjustable and I have it on the firmest setting and never had a spin out and trust me I drive aggressive.
#7
I have an M7 front strut bar & Cabrio braces on the front. I respectfully disagree that they will make any noticeable difference in the way your MINI handles or feels. I'm sure they must add some rigidity to the MINI, but I can't feel it. No harm in putting one on & maybe it will make a big difference. ;-)
Trending Topics
#8
#9
Vendor
iTrader: (10)
If you do decide to get one the M7 brace fits the best. Since you already have the plates your best bet would be to list them in the classifieds and get some of your money back on them.
#12
#13
#14
Instead of the brace, I would spend money on front camber plates such as these:
http://www.waymotorworks.com/ireland...e-r50-r53.html
The plates will:
- Improve handling (reduce understeer)
- Combat strut tower mushrooming (thicker plate than OEM)
- Replace top rubber bushing that tends to crack/tear.
The only cons are that they cost money and will slightly increase (< 1/8") the front ride height due to the slightly thicker plate.
http://www.waymotorworks.com/ireland...e-r50-r53.html
The plates will:
- Improve handling (reduce understeer)
- Combat strut tower mushrooming (thicker plate than OEM)
- Replace top rubber bushing that tends to crack/tear.
The only cons are that they cost money and will slightly increase (< 1/8") the front ride height due to the slightly thicker plate.
#18
#19
I used to have a strut tower brace, and it was pretty neutral, when i had weight in the back, i had the rear seats and a subwoofer box that filled up the lower trunk area.
When i took off the rear seats, the weight balance changed and it translated into understeer, i took the brace off and boom, understeer was gone. In my opinion, the strut tower brace isnt worth it, it gives a harder ride and it really doesnt help handling
It does give you more front wheel feedback, but thats it. IMO dont buy this. Consider it when you have fully adjustable suspension in which you can correct the problems caused by the brace. If you dont have adjustable shocks/springs/swaybars dont even consider it
Oem shock valving is horrible. I recently bought some bc coilovers and the ride harshness just dissapeared. Yes it is way stiffer, but way smoother either way. And its only stiff because i set it up that way
Hope this helps
When i took off the rear seats, the weight balance changed and it translated into understeer, i took the brace off and boom, understeer was gone. In my opinion, the strut tower brace isnt worth it, it gives a harder ride and it really doesnt help handling
It does give you more front wheel feedback, but thats it. IMO dont buy this. Consider it when you have fully adjustable suspension in which you can correct the problems caused by the brace. If you dont have adjustable shocks/springs/swaybars dont even consider it
Oem shock valving is horrible. I recently bought some bc coilovers and the ride harshness just dissapeared. Yes it is way stiffer, but way smoother either way. And its only stiff because i set it up that way
Hope this helps
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post