I intend to do what I can to improve the handling of my drop top. Given the lack of a top, I was thinking that front strut would go a long way to reduce the flex inherent in a convertible. After reading a few threads, I'd say most folks think handling is more readily improved by beefing up the rear sway bar. For the MCSc, which would be better?

How about installation hassle. I figure I could crank on a strut without much difficulty. Replacing the sway bar seems like a bigger job. Too big for a mechanic of "mini" abilities?

Finally, which are the standard vendors/brands most used/most relied upon for these bits and pieces (promini? JCW?)

Thanks in advace.

 

see my post here for the answers

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ad.php?t=59188

 

I just installed a front strut tower brace (H-Sport), 22 mm rear sway bar (RSpeed) and Koni FSD's. The rear sway bar greatly improves the handling, but I also find that the combination of the FSD's and front strut brace make the car feel much more solid. I have to drive down an unpaved road to get to my son's school and these mods made a big difference in how the car feels on such a road.

I had all three items installed at once. Total cost, including an alignment was $700. I watched as they installed the rear sway bar. To do it, they had to remove the cabrio bracing, and they dropped the exhaust. There is no way I would try to do a rear sway bar install on my own w/o power tools and a lift after watching what they did.

 

Ive done all 3 on our convertible its no big deal.Any one with mechanical ability can do it.The convertible because of the chassis brace that doesnt exist on the hard top requires more part removal.The extra rear suspension bridge also requires removal of the exhaust and rear heat sheild for access to the frame center bolt.Once that is done its the same process as hard top.

 

Where did you get that much done for $700? Just the parts alone are way more than that?

 

Sorry, should have been more clear -- the $700 was just for the installation and alignment. It was about $800 for the pieces (Got a XMas deal on the Koni's and bought the front strut brace used).

 

I bought a JCW Struct bar from by local min dealer. The cost including install is Cad$385 and I think it's worth every penny. You will see a hugh difference in the car. It corners much much better now.