March 2005

The first thing we can do to a car to increase overall looks and performance is to lower it. After researching several companies, I decided to go with the Highsport coilovers from FK. They had a top notch warranty incase anything ever happened to them and a strong backing in the dub tuner scene.

Suspension is fairly simple to do on MKIV's and is definatly something you can do in your own garage if you have some mechnical knowledge and a few tools.

There are a few special items you will need before you begin.

- Special VW Strut removal tool
- Spring Compressor
- Jack / Jack Stands
- Rachette Set

First off, you have to get the strut removeal tool from VW. This tool is basically a 23mm socket, which allows you to have an allen key go down the center of it so that when you unbolt the strut, the allen bolt does not turn.

Instead of buying one from VW (Recommended), I went el-cheapo and made my own from an old socket and a piece of steel tubing. You probably won't beable to do this unless you have access to a welder or know someone that does, but I'll show the tool anyway. (Thanks to Dave for welding this).

You will also have to rent, beg, borrow or steal a spring compressor from your local shop. I got this from our local "Canadian Tire" (Pep Boys, Princess Auto or whichever major store is in your location will do). Basically, its 2 very long bolts, that you clamp onto your springs to compress them so you can remove them from your vehicle.

After you have these items, it's realitivly simple to remove the suspension. There isn't much too it, and you can pretty much figure it out just by jacking the car up, remove the rims and take everything apart. I never did it before, and it took about 4 hours total. Not bad for a first timer!

Well, thats it for this month for the Silverstone Project Car! Next month we start collecting bodykit parts and test fitting them to the car! Stay Tuned!