GT w/ Sports option suspension, SUSPENION OPTIONS Options

[operative]

I have done my research and have come to the following conclusions regarding my suspension options.

From 6gc info page (http://www.6gc.net/index.php?action=information&itu=4): “The GT hatchback does has the option of having the Sports Package on it, which utilizes special shock absorbers with two-stage valves, which give the car better dampening force for better handling stability. The Sports Package is not available on the ST model.”

I have a 97 GT with the sports option. (Toyota dealer told me so)

I have purchased the KYB GR2 from tirerack. $220
I have purchased the Tein S Tech springs from Ebay. $140

Now realizing that the KYB front inserts wont fit.

I have the following options (correct me if Im wrong):

1. Buy additional Brand new struts without sports package (UNSEALED) from partznet.com for 115.81 a piece(x2) = $232. Or used struts for $$??. Im guessing this will fit my car. Total parts cost $600. handling will be great, but ride will be bumpy.

2. Buy brand new struts with sports package (SEALED) for 115.81 x2 = $232, and lower the car with stock sports package struts. Return the KYB front inserts. Total parts cost = $490.
Have anyone lowered their car with the sports package struts??? Maybe I’ll be the first. Who knows what problems lay ahead, but will be better ride quality than KYB front inserts.

3. Faak KYB, get Tein SS coilovers and not have these problems. Total cost = $1250. Good handling and ride quality but double the price.

I am mainly interested in Have anyone lowered their car with the sports package struts??? and Is my options correct.
I also have 225/45/17 tires, I am assuming that the 1.5 drop in front wont scrap based on conversations with many 6gc member.


Thanks for the help.

This post has been edited by operative: Dec 26, 2005 - 4:13 PM

[Silver94CelicaOw...]

....and go out and buy the tein system.....

Art....you said the "T" word.....

This is the best money spent on suspension on our cars, period. I've had my coilovers for about 4 months now and its the best mod I've done yet. It changed the attitude and feel of the car from feeling like a sporty coupe to an all out track car.....VERY fun to drive now with the suspension and my GReddy exhaust. I love it.

This is a good thread though. I had no idea my old suspension was the Sport option until I read this. To all the GT guys on a budget, this is some great info to have an inproved suspension setup, one of the best things you can do for our cars.