Gen 1.0 & 1.5 W-Body 1988-2001 Comprehensive Suspension Upgrade Reference Thread

[Robert]

This suspension upgrade list applies to the following Gen 1.0 & 1.5 W-Body vehicles

• 1988–1996 Buick Regal
• 1988–1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme
• 1988–1996 Pontiac Grand Prix
• 1990–2001 Chevrolet Lumina
• 1995–1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo

This thread is dedicated to listing all available W-Body suspension upgrade parts in one convenient location. Whether you’re looking to improve your handling or refresh your worn-out suspension, this list provides part numbers and compatibility information for easy reference.


Front Struts: (These are a welded assembly and can be modded)

• Parts list coming soon.

Rear Struts: (Only available on the 1995-2001 1.5 Gen Platform 1995-1999 Monte Carlo, 1995-2001 Lumina)

• Parts list coming soon.

Front Lowering Springs:
Intrax Suspension Coil Springs (1.8" drop) 25-1-024

Rear Monoleaf options:

• There aren't any options to buy a mono leaf these days, there were lowering ones back in the day.
• Birchmount Auto Spring Company
  • 458 Birchmount Road
    Scarborough, ON
    P/N M1K1M6
    Telephone: (416) 698-3636
    Fax: (416) 698-5732

Control Arm Bushings:

• Energy Suspension polyurethane front control arm bushings 3.3171R
• Energy Suspension polyurethane front control arm bushings 3.3171G
  • (requires modification to fit)

Front Sway Bars:

• GM 34mm Sway Bar #26024362
  • Compatibility: Fits all 1st Gen W-body vehicles 1988-2001

Rear Sway Bars (Stock is 12-14mm):

• Addco 7/8” Rear Sway Bar Part #474
  • Compatibility: Fits all 1st Gen W-body vehicles except the 1995-2001 Monte Carlo and Lumina.
• Addco 7/8” Rear Sway Bar Part #639
  • Compatibility: Specifically for 1995-2001 Monte Carlo and Lumina.

Sway Bar bushings:

• (34mm bar) inner: MOOG Part # K6457 {Sway Bar Bushing Kit} Front Suspension; To Frame; w/1-5/16" Bar
• (all bars) outer: MOOG Part # K6641 {Sway Bar Bushing Kit} Front Suspension; To Control Arm

Trailing Arms:

• Dorman trailing arm replacements (square tube) 905-501
• GM Tubular Trailing Arms #12498649 (Discontinued)
• BMR Trailing Arms with Polyurethane Bushings TCA011
  • Description: Sold as a pair, complete with bushings.
  • Compatibility: Fits 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Gen W-body vehicles.

Lateral Arms:

• BMR Forward Mount Adjustable Lateral Arms TCA012
• BMR Rearward Mount Adjustable Lateral Arms TCA013

Roll Cage Kit:

• Part Number: 550-946805K (Discontinued)

 

Suspension Upgrades for Gen2/3 W-Body Vehicles - MORE TO BE ADDED

[Robert]

Guide: Building Your Own Rear Coilovers for 1.0 and 1.5 Gen W-Body Vehicles
If you’re interested in building your own rear coilovers for your W-Body vehicle, this guide provides an overview of the parts you’ll need and where to find them. While there are many places to source these parts, such as Summit Racing, the steps below focus on commonly available components and key considerations for your build.


Parts You’ll Need

1. Coil-Over Springs

• Description: You’ll need 12” x 2.5” coil-over springs. The spring rate you choose will depend on your driving preferences and intended use.
• Recommended Spring Rates:
  • Stay between 250-350 lb/in.
  • For reference, 300 lb/in springs are a popular choice for balanced performance.
  • Summit Racing - Coil-Over Springs

2. Sleeves and Adjuster Nuts

• Description: These components allow for height adjustments and secure the springs in place. Choose a sleeve length that provides sufficient range for raising and lowering your vehicle.
• Recommended Sleeve Length:
  • A 7-inch sleeve typically provides more than enough adjustment for most applications.
  • Summit Racing - Sleeves and Adjuster Nuts

Steps to Build Your Rear Coilovers

1. Choose Your Spring Rate:

• Determine the ideal spring rate based on your preferences. A softer spring (250 lb/in) offers a more comfortable ride, while stiffer springs (350 lb/in) improve handling and performance.

2. Order the Components:

• Purchase your springs and sleeves from a reputable vendor like Summit Racing using the links provided above.

3. Install the Sleeves

• Slide the adjuster sleeves onto your shocks. Ensure they fit snugly and allow for smooth height adjustment.

4. Mount the Springs:

• Install the coil-over springs onto the shocks, securing them with the adjuster nuts. Double-check that the springs are properly seated.

5. Adjust the Ride Height:

• Use the adjuster nuts to set your desired ride height. Tighten the nuts securely to lock the springs in place.

6. Test and Fine-Tune

• Reinstall the shocks onto your vehicle and test the ride. Adjust the height or spring rate as needed for optimal performance and comfort.

Additional Notes

• Compatibility: Ensure all components are compatible with your specific W-Body model and aftermarket shocks if applicable.
• Resources: While this guide uses Summit Racing as an example, these parts are widely available from other retailers.

Feel free to post any questions or share your results in the forums to help others with their rear coilover builds!