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C4S lowering springs: what else while we are at it?
I am in the process of setting up a .2 C4S with more aggressive suspension. The stock PASM isn't the greatest. I want to start with lowering springs to reduce that gap, but while I am down there, what else should I add? What is a good bang for the buck? My last car was a 991.1 with SPASM, and I loved how tight and flat that car felt. I don't want to spend a ton, but often $1500 or $2000 on suspension components goes a LONG way
Other mods I am considering:
-DSC module
Someone is going to ask me "what do you want to use the car for" so pre-emptively, the answer is: everything. I want a tighter all-around feel, as it is quite the floater at speed. I don't need GT3 RS hardcore, but firm, tight, responsive suspension if my aim, aside from losing the 4x4 wheel gap. My other car is a 2002 Tacoma with stiffer leaf springs and Tundra struts, so it is a firm ride. I am sure whatever we do to this car still won't be "firm" like the Taco; I have yet to drive ANY porsche, even a 997.1 GT3, that is as firm as my older truck, and given that I put 30k on that truck a year, I figure whatever we come up with here won't be a big deal.
FYI, I once had a 997.2 with the optional B8 sport struts and H&R springs. It was fine as a daily, but at least 50% firmer than the stock struts.
Eibachs definitely improved the handling on my .1. I think Eibachs + 10/15mm spacers front/rear are the ideal stance for the 997. I get compliments from everyone and its one of my favorite mods.
"While you are in there", I would replace the strut mounts and bump stops. Also a good time to do brakes, brake flush, rotors and/or clean the wheel wells and calipers. And inspect your front fender liners where the brake vents and underbody panel meets. That area can get abused. One of mine was cracked, the other had chunk missing.
I've got a DIY writeup on it but it doesn't cover the C4S. I think your fronts are a little more involved.
For the front you also need to unbolt the driveshaft from the front differential, either at the diff or at the wheels. Personally I think it's easier unbolting at the diff. Otherwise, you will not get the clearance you need to R&R the shocks.
I like doing springs with swaybars and possibly adjustable endlinks if needed.
In all my past cars since about 1998, when doing springs and/or shocks, I have always done at least swaybars at the same time. A few times, I have done it in stages over a few months, as I did with my C2S, which makes the difference really clear. I think both Eibach and H&R offer both springs + swaybars. I went with Eibach mainly because I live in LA where driving/roads/driveways... are like some kind of MadMax situation. I wanted something that is lower than the PASM height but a bit higher up than H&R. In any case, the handling difference is very clear between stock--->just springs--->springs + swaybars. After that, I am waiting to have a little extra dough for DSC.
Hi there. I'm at the similar stage of the process myself and have been talking to suspension specialists in SoCal about supplemental upgrades to complement my TechArt springs and RSS wheel spacers (7mm F and 15mmR). I've heard good things about DSC and its worth looking into since you have PASM. My 997.2 is with base suspension and serves as a daily with 3-4 times a year on the track. Here is what I've learned regarding mechanical upgrades:
First of all, sport alignment and 4 wheel corner balancing are essential after you do any suspension work;
When you lower the car, there may be some geometry and camber imbalances. To correct that definitely look into rear toe links and adjustable thrust arm bushings.
Some shops recommended sway bars but others said the ride will be too harsh. H&R sways are bolt on using factory drop links. If you go with GT3 kit you will need to upgrade drop links, which is not a bad idea;
One set up I was offered involves GT3 front control arms (and adjustable front bushings) with rear toe link. Next phase from that, if need arises, will be to do GT3 sways and drop links.
Hope this helps. You will absolutely need to do background research and reach out to guys in Tarret and Elephant who make the hardware. Then find a reputable suspension shop to come up with a game plan. Good luck and keep us posted on your progress.
If your goals are better ride, improved handling and smaller wheel gap there is an easier way.
1) DSC will improve ride, turn-in feel, flatness, and handling.
2) GT2 rear sway bar will further improve handling, flatness and turn-in feel.
3) wheel spacers (7mm, 15mm) on stock wheels will visually improve the gap wo/sacrificing ride or clearance.
TOTAL COST Under $2k and a few hours of install using ramps.