ZZ33

iTrader: (1)

Right guys, seeking to improve my knowledge here on the FD suspension set-up. I've searched around and found bits and pieces of information, but it would be really useful for me (and hopefully other noobs) if someone could help bring the knowledge together in one thread.

Background: The FD was known to have excellent handling and 50/50 weight distribution. While my RX is in the shop getting silly power gains, I want to bring the focus back on the suspension set-up, specifically the parts which are more-often overlooked.

Using these diagrams as a start point (pinched from this forum!):











I'd like to learn about the constituent parts of the stock suspension set-up:

1 - Their different names (for the same part)
2 - Their primary function
3 - Which parts need most attention/replacement (being a 20+ year old car)
4 - Replacement difficulty (DIY job or a big piece of work?)
5 - Recommended upgrade options
6 - Differences for street/track/other uses
7 - Troubleshooting tips (noises and other ways any faults would manifest)

I've deliberately not asked about springs/shocks/coilovers as that has been extensively covered and would necessitate its own thread.

So far, I have:

FRONT

> Upper Arms
> Lower Arms
> Anti-Roll Bar
> Anti-Roll Bar end-links

REAR
> Upper Arms
> Lower Arms
> Control Arms
> Toe Control Link (Toe-link)
> Anti-Roll Bar

Other
>Bushings - apply to which? Replace? Best options?

Definitions
- ANTIROLL BAR (Sway Bar, Stabilizer Bar) - Suspension piece that limits the amount of body roll while cornering.


Alternate Names
Trailing Arms?


Thank you!!

lOOkatme

iTrader: (19)

The pictures you posted are of an RX8 suspension. the rx7 is a little different.

If the bushings are old and worn out I suggest replacing them with Superpro polyurethane bushings. new bushings hold the alignment of the suspension under stress/load better than rubber and definitely better than old worn out bushings. the car will feel much better.

Spring rate selection is also important. I like the 8/7, 8/6 range for street driving, autox will be higher perhaps a 10/9, 9/8 range.


There isn't much that is needed to be changed on the rx7 in terms of replacing parts. I just put new bushings in mine and its great. I also suggest replacing the differential bushing as these can also get old and worn out. again superpro is what I recommend as their bushings are designed correctly so they don't drag. I am not sure if Whiteline makes bushings for the rx7 but they are also designed very well.

Noises typically come from the rear pillowball bushings. these can also be updated with new OEM pillowball bushings.

Sgtblue

iTrader: (16)

There's also a suspension section with focused info and for searches....
Suspension/Wheels/Tires/Brakes - RX7Club.com

ZZ33

iTrader: (1)

Cool thanks! Are all pictures from the RX8? I can search more for FD diagrams and replace the original post

lOOkatme

iTrader: (19)

the first picture is of FD RX7 components.

the last two pics are of an rx8 suspension.

the rx8 is a little different and the bushings are designed more like newer cars I have seen with the one facing vertical in the front and upward. the rear of the rx8 is a multi-link, the FD rx7 does not have a multi-link rear.