greetings forum,

winter is here and i am storing the car. this means public transport and saving for an upgrade -the suspension.

i've been researching but need to know the following:

1. how do i read spring rates? higher/lower #s mean...?

2. driving is strictly street, occasionally spiritedly -thus handling is important but maybe confort just a bit more. i am looking at new shocks/springs (undetermined brands at this time), poly bushings for the front/rubber for the rear. i am not considering things like idler arms, control arms, tie rods, etc. BUT should i? my budget for this spring project is $1000-$1200 canadian, so i would not be happy if i NEED to think about these extras.

3. i am ambitious but unexperienced. i want to do this all myself. besides beer and determination, what special tools or know-how might i need? how long should i expect this to take me?

4. what are the function of sway bars? to me they seem to make the car stiffer, thus handle better...? to me, they also appear a greedy luxury i can't afford right now. sounds right?

more questions likely in the future but for now, these answers will help me focus my plans.

thanks in advance,
norman ng