Handling Question

[rustychops41]

After years, and owning 3 different BJ chassis Proteges, (2 sedans, 1 PR5) I have a Q about my 2007 MZ3 HB with the 2.3L/5sp combo. When you're "honkin" through a left hander trying to beat the yellow light, anything but judicious application of the throttle leads to instant understeer. Is this a product of the 2.3's torque, the awful OEM Goodyears, the Ford C-1 platform, or do I have a problem in the alignment/suspension department? None of the Protege's ever behaved this way, but the 2.0L were wheezers when compared to the 2.3L. Any input would soothe my mind.

 

[NCZ13]

i would put most of it on the tires. personally i think the p5 handles much better, but it isnt like the 3 is a SUV.

 

[rustychops41]

Thanks for the input. I was thinking the same, "My PR5 handled better", but that's probably not entirely fair. The MZ3 still steps out under drop-throttle, and seems nicely neutral overall, but when you squeeze too hard on the loud pedal while cornering it sure lets you know in a hurry. The PR5 would just let you mash your foot down and steer. The Goodyears are going buh-bye soon anyway, and I'll take the extra poop of the 2.3L anyday, but I'm sure glad I'm not auto-xing this thing, I think it would be very frustrating coming off the corners.

 

[chrissor]

mazda 3s have terriable issues with understeer. it has to do with the factory alignment specs, they're completely s***. and for the most non adjustable. buying the aftermarket camber plates and rear camber plates will help. also the rear end is somewhat sloppy with the factory sway bar. GT spec makes lots of braces for our cars and they help significantly when paired with the chamber adjustments.

 

[AufMitterSpiel]

This has been my major issue for a while with my sedan. Camber plates make sense along with proper toe and damper settings; so anyone know how long these take to install and/or how much it costs to have them installed?

 

[Akaveli]

Can't really put a specific price on that. It all depends on how much the local shops would charge for installation. If you have some free time and some car buddies I'm sure ya'll can knock that out fairly quick.

 

[AufMitterSpiel]

Right on thanks!