WRX Road Race/Autocross Suspension Setup
Here's a list of suspension components and modifications that will help your Subaru WRX handle like a race car. You'll first want to have a good idea of what type of racing you plan to do before you start buying parts and modifying things - this way you don't waste money on the wrong parts or the wrong setup. This list is geared more towards the folks who want to participate in a number of autocross and track events.
Race Tires
Do yourself a favor and get a second set of wheels and tires. You'll want a set of super sticky street radials or some good R-compound tires to be competitive. Those who want the wheels to tuck in the stock fender will be limited mostly to 8" wheels and 225-235mm width tires on the WRX, the STi's will have a little more room. The determining factor on wheel/tire width will end up being the offset (backspacing) of the wheel. A popular choice would be a 17x8" wheel for a typical road race and/or autocross setup. Once you get more serious you might want to consider a wide body kit or flares to fit more rubber in there.
Coilovers
If standard shocks and lowering springs are no longer cutting it, you should look at a coilover setup. There are two choices - spring and perch kits or true full coilovers. The latter will afford you additional adjustment options to help fine-tune the suspension at the track. You'll also want some stiffer spring rates depending on the weight of your car. If you can get your car corner weighted you'll be able to accurately determine the spring rate you'd need at each corner. Shop for Coilovers
Adjustable Camber Plates
If your coilovers don't come with camber plates you should look into some. Once you start getting serious about tracking your car you'll find that you need to adjust camber in certain situations at certain tracks. Camber plates make it easier to make instant adjustments.
Swaybars
Larger swaybars will help reduce body roll. Shop for Swaybars
End Links
The factory plastic End Links on the rear swaybar tend to give in the turns, making the effects of a larger swaybar less effective. It's a good idea to replace these with stronger units to further improve handling. Shop for End Links.
Strut Braces
Strut bars will help reduce body flex and will tighten up the car's chassis. If you plan on installing a roll bar or roll cage, the rear strut bar might be pointless. Shop for Strut Bars
Big Brake Kit
If you're suffering from brake fade and aggressive pads aren't doing the job it might be time to consider a big brake kit. These kits will eliminate fade, reduce stopping distances, and give you a great deal more confidence at high track speeds. Most big brake kits require 17" wheels (minimum) and a certain wheel offset to clear the width of the caliper. Make sure you take this into account when shopping for wheels. Most big brake kits will come with steel braided lines and good pads, but if they don't make sure you pick some up. And don't forget the high-temp brake fluid as well.
Shop for Brake Kits
Polyurethane Bushings
Replace all those flexible rubber bushings throughout the suspension with poly replacements. If you're going full track you might consider going with poly motor mounts and maybe even body bushings. It will vibrate more but everything will be solid.
A few things to keep in mind:
Set a goal/budget before buying any parts. No plan = more money later.
Be realistic with those goals and plans. What will your car be used for?
There is no "best" part when it comes to modding.
Do your research before you buy parts - make sure the parts you buy will work together well.
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Race Tires
Coilovers
Adjustable Camber Plates
Swaybars
End Links
Strut Braces
Big Brake Kit
Polyurethane Bushings
