kel

Hi Gang,
I have an '87 TII project which is ready for attention to the suspension. I had it into the Mazda dealer for 4wh alignment which they said they couldn't finish because the wheel bearings were too worn. (BTW, they quoted $1k in parts to fix - says you can't change just the bearings. yeah, right)
Anyway, long as I'm working under the car, I would appreciate your expert views on what is best to replace - and with what brand/part - to get the very best ride this car is capable of. (talkin' about tight handling & smooth ride)
My new job requires me to drive 250miles over the continental divide Monday mornings and back over the hill on Fridays. Lots of twisty turneys and ups 'n downs.
Currently, the struts are shot and I can feel every grain of sand I drive over. So, I know struts are in the very near future.
What Kind is the best for this car? Then, what else would you do to the original suspension + 190Kmiles?

Thanks,000,000 for your thoughts.

- k -

OneEyedJack

iTrader: (5)

When replacing parts, OEM is very good if you are concerned with durability in almost any instance.

As far as your wheel bearings, they were not lying to you. To remove only the bearing from the hub, you must essentially drill out holes to tap them out. Check http://www.mazdatrix.com for a walk through on how/why to do this. The hubs themselves will run you near $1k installed.

For suspension over long drives, i would suggest either OEM replacement or a spring/strut combo. Koni's are good, KYB AGX are probably a favorite on here.
Google is a good place to start shopping around.

banzaitoyota

I would start with the basics:

Have a TRUSTED, EXPERIENCED suspension perdon look at the car. Evaluate the ball joints, tie rod ends and busshings as well as the wheel bearings, Start by getting the BASICS up to par. Then I would invest in a good set of shocks and springs along with a QUALITY Tire

kel

Okay. Will do. What, in your opinion, would constitute a "good set of shocks & Springs" as well as your Quality tire?

- k -

banzaitoyota

All depends on your driving style and your budget. I have had the KYB AGX's & Eibach springs and they are a decent setup. For an everyday commuter they may be overkill.

Tires are subjective. I run Nitto's for D/D and Victo-Racers to autocross

kel

Very good. I don't do any autocross, but I tend to drive aggressively. Nowadays it's on open highway, but the PC would look down upon my urban driving no doubt.

My budget will be pretty good. I plan on driving this car for some time and would prefer to put quality parts in.

I've been driving this thing stock since new and have been very satisfied overall, but wear and age have taken it's toll and I'm looking to reverse as much as I can.

Thanks!

- k -