Need Additional Advice - Replacing Struts and Springs

[50313]

I'm going to be upgrading my wheels, brakes, struts and springs very soon.

While I'm at it, I'm wondering if I should also change out the Strut mounts and bearings and the swaybar endlinks.

Is there anything else I should look at doing while I'm at it.

Thanks,

-peel

 

[Nomad]

you may need to change the swaybar endlinks anyhow due to them being frozen on there.

You can certainly change the front strut mounts as they do get worn in time.
You can also change things like sway bar bushings and lube.
Do whatever extras you want to really.

 

[sam1]

definately get endlinks. The first time I took mine off ('05) they were a pain, but eventually came off. The second time, I had to completely destroy them to get them off. Better to have new ones handy than be car-less while waiting for them to arrive.

 

[50313]

Thanks. I generally do grab just about anything that makes snse to change while I've got things apart, but if you guys told me the mounts were built like tanks then I wouldnt bother.

I've been reading a lot about the endlinks being a pain so I definitely plan on getting some. Then the question is, do I go with stckers or some awr adjustables?

I guess the real question is, where do I stop?

Anyway I guess I'll take it easy for now ad see how big of a pain it is to pull everything apart. Then if necessary I can order up any additional parts I might need.

Thanks again,

-peel

 

[Magus]

Do not get AWR if this is not strictly a race car. The AWR make noise, rust, and some bend or break. There are going to be AXR endlinks you could get instead of OEM, but they are a little more than OEM.

 

[50313]

Great, I'm glad I asked. Definitely one of those things where aftermarket+more expensive does not equal better for a daily driver.

When you say there are going to be AXR endlinks, do you mean they're in production, or that while I'm searching I should come across them?

Thanks,

-peel

 

[Dimitrios]

Karl at AXR is in the process of developing the endlinks.

http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showthread.php?t=123676420

If you have a sedan, the Protege5 rear strut mounts are a bit stiffer/stronger (however you want to objectify that). They'll fit the sedan's fine.

The Protege FAQ has mucho details on the same: http://www.protegefaq.net/mods_suspension.html and http://www.protegefaq.net/mods_suspension.html#bushings

If you haven't done it on your own, this may help:

http://www.floptical.net/mazda/

 

[poonpower]

what about the endlinks from rockauto? I definitely like the price, and its a relatively reliable website.