Rear Suspension Reinforcement Options

[kdfoust]

This spring I'm wrapping up completely rebuilding my suspension. Right now I'm working on the rear end.

First off, what do ya'll think about the weld on trailing arm reinforcing plates (like PP and a number of other places sell for ~$100). The reinforcing plates seem like a reasonable thing to do, right? All these kits look like the same stuff to me. Is there a mo-better way to do the job, allowing that I can fabricate anything I need?

Secondly, I'd like to go ahead and reinforce the suspension consoles while I'm at it. The problem I've got is that I've never had a good look at the underside of a teener (laying on my back on my creeper in the garage doesn't count). I've looked at the PCA GGR picture for the reinforcment setup. Is the GGR setup state of the art OR is something else the hot ticket? Any recommendations for SoCal shops to do this for me - ones you've used in LA/Orange/San Diego county area?

Have fun,
Kevin

[Brad Roberts]

I just get tired of seeing people install shit on their cars...and they dont really know why. I personally dont want anything on my car that doesnt help in some form or fashion...and if you can prove that it helps.. I'm all for it and will shut up. Ask my wife about the plates that hang on our walls here at the house.. LOSE THEM. I cant eat off of them... worthless.

My favorite write up is the stress analysis tests done by true to god stress testing engineers for General Dynamics. They tested the 914 control arm with and without that stiff kit installed (on the arm)..It took the guy almost 6 months to complete all the testing and metalurgy tests. In a nutshell.. he said that the side we weld the kit is not the week side. The side with the exposed pivot arm is what tweaked first in side load testing. They could not get it to twist without completely breaking. Again.. Porsche slapping a band-aid on a problem.

I wish I could find the test. I sold the guy a 914 that him and his son built.

B