LLTEK Strut tower brace install and test
12-01-2004, 10:01 AM
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LLTEK Strut tower brace install and test
OK, after STFA, I still installed the LLTEK brace that I waited over a year for due to the original design not fitting. Yes, I know our cars have a tie bar and a double firewall (which really isn't meant to tighten up the front end anyway). From an engineering aspect, my thoughts on why the LLTEK piece looked like a good idea is becuase it ties the outermost points of the top end of the suspension together. The factory tie bar connect more toward the car's centerline.
Anyway, the bar has been on for two days now. There is a definate improvement in the way the car feels. It is definately tighter in the front and the car actually seems to handle a little better on turns on the highway. It does not feel any worse over bumps or potholes, nor do I notice any new noises.
FYI, my car has ALL STOCK suspension except for CPP upper control arms and tie rod ends, as well as a DTS. If you have sway bars and other goodies you may not notice any difference.
The only thing that was a slight PITA was installation. The bar comes really close to the battery terminals, so I guggest buying those cheapo vinyl covers from the local auto parts store to prevent sparks. Also, the black plastic cowl cover needs to be modified. The instructions say to remove it. I did at first, but the weatherstrip at the front of the cowl will not stay in place without it. When I drove around like this I noticed more engine and road noise, so i reinstalled the cowl cover by modifying it. I carefully used tiny wire cutters to cut through the plastic mesh where the bar sticks through. It looks pretty good, almost factory. The only other thing i had to do was notch the rear right corner of the plastic battery cover to fit.
I'll send pictures if anyone is interested. Maybe do a write up in tech.
Hope this helps.
Anyway, the bar has been on for two days now. There is a definate improvement in the way the car feels. It is definately tighter in the front and the car actually seems to handle a little better on turns on the highway. It does not feel any worse over bumps or potholes, nor do I notice any new noises.
FYI, my car has ALL STOCK suspension except for CPP upper control arms and tie rod ends, as well as a DTS. If you have sway bars and other goodies you may not notice any difference.
The only thing that was a slight PITA was installation. The bar comes really close to the battery terminals, so I guggest buying those cheapo vinyl covers from the local auto parts store to prevent sparks. Also, the black plastic cowl cover needs to be modified. The instructions say to remove it. I did at first, but the weatherstrip at the front of the cowl will not stay in place without it. When I drove around like this I noticed more engine and road noise, so i reinstalled the cowl cover by modifying it. I carefully used tiny wire cutters to cut through the plastic mesh where the bar sticks through. It looks pretty good, almost factory. The only other thing i had to do was notch the rear right corner of the plastic battery cover to fit.
I'll send pictures if anyone is interested. Maybe do a write up in tech.
Hope this helps.
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