X74 - 99 C2 Cab Questions

[whs]

I have searched this and other boards for answers to my questions but have not found them. I was looking at possibly putting a X74 suspension on my US 99 C2 Cab. I have found a few references to not using the X74 on the early year 996, but no real explainations as to why. I have also read that pre 02 cabs are not recommended. So here are my questions:

1. Is it okay to put the X74 on a US 99 C2 cab? If not, what is the next best option that is viable. I want improved handling and would prefer lowering as well.

2. Is safe to assume that an engine plate is needed with any lowering system. For that matter is it safe to say that we should really all have one anyway?

3. I know a lot of people do this themselves, but I simply don't have the time, space or equipment to get it done. How much would a good indy shop charge to do the install?

4. When you go to a lowered suspension, do you have to change the tire profiles? I have the stock 17" wheels with the original size tires. I am going to need to replace the tires soon and would like to go ahead and get the proper tires to work with the suspension system I choose.

Thanks in advance for your assistance and I hope I didn't overlook these answers in my searches.

Will

[Loren]

IMHO...

1. No, the chassis is not stiff enough. If you do and track the car it should be inspected at least once a year.

2. That depends on how low you go and what you plan on running over or backing into. ;) It will save scrapes but will not help if the motor takes a direct hit (like a curb). After all it does attach to the motor.

3. A full suspension replacement is usually 4-5 hour job plus an alignment. Here on the West Coast a good shop will charge you about $800-$1000 for all of that.

4. There is not need to change tires/wheels. You should choose the wheel/tire combination for the track or streets you drive on.

[whs]

IMHO...

1. No, the chassis is not stiff enough. If you do and track the car it should be inspected at least once a year.

2. That depends on how low you go and what you plan on running over or backing into. ;) It will save scrapes but will not help if the motor takes a direct hit (like a curb). After all it does attach to the motor.

3. A full suspension replacement is usually 4-5 hour job plus an alignment. Here on the West Coast a good shop will charge you about $800-$1000 for all of that.

4. There is not need to change tires/wheels. You should choose the wheel/tire combination for the track or streets you drive on.

Loren,

Thanks for the response. Is there a different suspension system that is an option, or is this just not a good idea for an early model 996 cab? Thanks.

Will

[Loren]

The RoW M030 makes for a really good handling street car (IMHO).

Otherwise, you could go with PSS9 which would be very low and very firm - but they are adjustable. I would still do inspections yearly if you track the car with PSS9's on it.

[viper501]

I'll chime in since you asked.

1. I agree w/ Loren. I have the x74 in my 99 Coupe and it is stiff. Really. It is not bone jarring but definitely not something that I would recommend for a cab car given the decreased stiffness and potential flexing of the chassis and resultant issues.

2. Protection plate is *cheap* insurance. It should already be on the car. If you lower it, even more so.

3. Install of the ROW M030 is going to be easy since everything is pre-assembled. You *can* do it yourself in your garage with a little time and the help of a friend. If not, I'd find a *qualified* indy that you trust and have some experience with. You will need an alignment afterward.

4. As Loren said, No.

[whs]

I'll chime in since you asked.

1. I agree w/ Loren. I have the x74 in my 99 Coupe and it is stiff. Really. It is not bone jarring but definitely not something that I would recommend for a cab car given the decreased stiffness and potential flexing of the chassis and resultant issues.

2. Protection plate is *cheap* insurance. It should already be on the car. If you lower it, even more so.

3. Install of the ROW M030 is going to be easy since everything is pre-assembled. You *can* do it yourself in your garage with a little time and the help of a friend. If not, I'd find a *qualified* indy that you trust and have some experience with. You will need an alignment afterward.

4. As Loren said, No.

Viper,

Thanks for the info. I guess I may need to track down Izzy or one of the other Charlotte guys to help.

Will

[viper501]

Will,

I'm just down in Cola so I'm happy to help as well.

[whs]

Will,

I'm just down in Cola so I'm happy to help as well.

Thanks for the offer and I will keep you in mind. I like to DIY, but I truly don't have even the basics like jack stands. I used to race Legends Cars at Charlotte Motor Speedway and did all the work on my car (which included a total rebuild following a rather unfortunate encounter with two other cars and a concrete wall). However, when I sold the car everything I had went with it.

This project is probably a couple of months off, but I need new tires sooner and wanted to make sure I didn't need to change sizes.

Will