Attn: Auto-X experts, need help

[STARION]

Hey,

Well, I have entered the GRM $2004 challenge (www.grassrootsmotorsports.com). The car I'm using is a 1990 FWD turbo. Now, I'm pretty much set on the mods I am going to do. However, I don't know nearly as much (specifically) on setting up a 1G FWD to auto-X. Now, Koni's are clearly out of the question, even used. I'm going to have to find some used AGX's for all corners, I was going to slot the top bolt on the fronts for camber adjustment, but am wondering how much movement of the bolt =how many degrees camber. Again, an alignment would have to go into the budget, and there's just no way it could happen. Now, for springs, I was just going to buy a lowering spring kit from suspension techniques or eibach. But, I am considering biting the bullet and taking a chunk ($400 )out of the budget for GC's so that I could choose the spring rates and change the heights. I wouldn't know which spring rates to choose, I am also looking for input on this. There will be no interior except for a driver seat and the car will need rates that will be a compromise between drag and auto-x. Now, if you're familiar with the competition, you know that there is both a drag race and secondly, an auto-x. So, on the first day, I could raise the rear as high as possible, put on the drag slicks, Zero the camber in front and run (would I want to put the stock shocks back on so it's softer in front?). Then the next day, make adjustments accordingly for the auto-x. I also haven't purchased any auto-x tires yet, I want to go as small as possible, I am wondering the smallest size wheel that will clear the brakes on a 90' FWD. Whichever wheel seems to be the smallest that will fit (I'm thinking 14 or 15) will likely receive some used victoracers if I am lucky eough to find any for cheap. Now, all you auto-x experts, if you were in this situation, what would you choose, help me out.

Thanks in advance

EDIT: Oops, I also meant to ask about possible ways of adjusting the rear camber for next to no cost. I would have no problem cutting/welding in adjustment slots and bolts here, but, looking at the setup, I'm not sure how to deal with the panhard, any ideas?

 

[jtmcinder]

I think that it's very cool that you're doing the GRM Challenge. I can't help much with 1Gs, but would suggest that you post something on the DSM-autoX list on Yahoo. This is the time of year that many people are buying and setting up their suspension for the next year and you might be able to get a deal. And maybe DSM pride will cause the price to drop even more. Plus, people like Mike at DSS read that list and might offer some advice.

Similarly, many people sell off last year's tires around now. I know I just saw a set of 15" Hoosiers on the Evolution list (also on Yahoo) for almost nothing. And even used Hoosiers are better than V700s.

Good luck.

- Jtoby

ps. if you really want to do well, you can't just show up with a stripped interior ... this will cost you too many concourse points.

 

[hoffman]

this is a tough one. i think the problem is, is that drag and autox require different suspension needs.

priority for starting autox is always tires. then i would say sway bars. the spring rate you would want to help the car handle better are going to be way too high for kybs to handle. so there is lies your problem.

but look over all the options you have. but tires first. you already said you had slicks for drag, get 2 more for the autox.