Front strut brace etc

[Critter]

Hi, a newbie from Australia here
I have what you call a P5, we call it an Astina SP20.

Was wondering if anybody had changed the stock front strut brace to an aftermarket one?
What difference was there (if any) and what did you use?

Also would be interested in what other suspension upgrades have been used successfully.
Currently I am using local Kings Springs (which are good quality things similar to Eibach) lowered 35mm and stock shocks. Koni adjustable (yellow Sport) strut inserts are planned (I understand you have to crack the existing struts open).

Thanks in advance.

 

[Yello-MP3]

Hey

First off. Welcom to this wonderful board for all proteges alike no matter if its a SP 20, Sport 20, Familia, MP3, Protege, or Pro 5, all are welcom. I am interestedin ur car. U call it the SP 20. There is a big brother car of the Pro 5 that is in Japan that is called The Familia Sport 20. I wonder how close ur car isto this big brother car or if its simple a renamed Pro 5. If u coud would u be willing to put up some pics???
Ummm as far as ur question there is a wonderful button at the top of the page that says search. Type in lowering springs or coil overs and u will find a wide variety of ways to improve upon ur handling and stance of the car. But as far a i know there are Ground control coil overs (adjustable height) and Eibachs, just for a few starters. But like i said use the search button and u will find about anything u wanna know then if u can't find it post and ask away.
Have a nice stay,
Zane

 

[blynzoo]

Several folks here have gone with an adjustable front brace. I think the one folks here use is this one
search "dg motorsports" (the manufacturer) and see what you get.

 

[Critter]

Hmmm, that dgmotorsports strut brace is kinda budget-basement....not! Looks schmick tho'.....

Did a search which was interesting up to a point, but there's not a lot of "I used one of these things and this is what I thought.

Have been to Protege5online and seen a good range of things for the car but looking to find who's used them and how well they work.
To bring them into Australia cost $$. The exchange rate is $0.54 so your $229 becomes our $424 plus freight so it wants to work well......

As near as I can tell, apart from some minor trim detail our SP20 is the equivalent of a P5. I love mine. Will post a pic or 2 shortly (new 17s tomorrow I hope )

In the meantime if anyone is interested I have a few pics in the Critter's Australian SP20 folder at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MP5online