Are MP3\Mazdaspeed struts ok on my p5 if I don't lower it?
- Thread starter |Thrax|
- Start date
Yes, you can use the Mazdaspeed struts with the stock springs, however they are tuned for the MP3's stiffer and shorter springs. I've had the 19mm AWR bar on for almost 2 years and the strut tabs have yet to break.
The "Mazdaspeed" sway bar sold in the kit from the dealership is made by Racing Beat.
The "Mazdaspeed" sway bar sold in the kit from the dealership is made by Racing Beat.
If you put the "Mazda" bar on, they won't cover it under warranty unless you upgrade the struts, because it states in the brochure that the aftermarket sway bars are intended to be used with the Mazdaspeed Struts. I would be very cautious installing the "Mazda" bar with the stock struts, because it is a solid bar and not a hollow one like the AWR.
Also, I'm not sure how the dealer is selling it, but usually when you buy the Sway Bar package, it comes with a new rear subframe. This subframe adjusts the clearance so that the bar will fit properly. This is why the AWR bar is easier to install...it comes with spacer brackets that just bolt up to the existing subframe and you don't have to change the whole subframe.
As for the front sway bar, there is a lot of work involved to replace that. You have remove the front crossmember, because there is not enough clearance to "snake" the bar out from the side. Most people, including myself, opt to leave the stock front bar alone. I have helped a friend swap one and it takes a good part of the day.
Also, I'm not sure how the dealer is selling it, but usually when you buy the Sway Bar package, it comes with a new rear subframe. This subframe adjusts the clearance so that the bar will fit properly. This is why the AWR bar is easier to install...it comes with spacer brackets that just bolt up to the existing subframe and you don't have to change the whole subframe.
As for the front sway bar, there is a lot of work involved to replace that. You have remove the front crossmember, because there is not enough clearance to "snake" the bar out from the side. Most people, including myself, opt to leave the stock front bar alone. I have helped a friend swap one and it takes a good part of the day.
so I'll be shopping for struts after I get my AWR.Here's another link http://www.racingbeat.com/Protege/ProjectMP3/ProjectMP3.htm
Also click here and read the section entitled Sway Bars and Struts...there are some excellent pictures.
http://www.racingbeat.com/Protege/Parts/Parts.htm
This explains how the regular proteges DO NOT have reinforced rear strut tabs.
Also click here and read the section entitled Sway Bars and Struts...there are some excellent pictures.
http://www.racingbeat.com/Protege/Parts/Parts.htm
This explains how the regular proteges DO NOT have reinforced rear strut tabs.
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