What can you all tell me about the effect on handling when you add a Strut Tower Bar or X-Brace?

 

STB -

Very little. X-brace? I'll post next week after I install mine!

 

that's what i heard

i don't have one, so i can't tell from my experience

but i bought the S2K for chassis stiffness out of the box (i thought that's why they called it high X frame or something)

 

STB
XBrace

 

STB helps a bit.... but not as much as an X-brace. However, the STB looks good.... more go-fast points there ;-)

 

When I installed my STB (Neuspeed), I did notice a change in handling. Maybe it's because of the Neuspeeds design. It seemed to tighten up the steering. When I installed my X-Brace (Mingster), it was like a different animal. The steering was even tighter. I need very little imput to move the car around. I could enter corners with MUCH more speed. Bump steering has all but vanished. If you plan on installing an STB, I suggest buying an X-brace to go with it. My only complaint about the X-Brace is that it gets in the way when changing the oil (drain and filter). Muz makes one that seems to make this an easier process, but I haven't read anything about it's stiffening capabilities. This is thier website.
http://http://www.australia-goldcoast.com/
Good Luck!

 

Even thoght the S is wicked stiff for a convertible, there is still some twisting of the frame. The X-Brace just ties the two sides of the transmission tunnel together and makes it even stiffer. Oh yeah, it seems to me like the front suspension works more in unison than before. Maybe that's why the bump steering has diminished. Dips, bumps, and rail road tracks don't seem so harsh. Just my two cents.

 

ACtually, for rough roads, I would imagine a bit of flexing actually HELPS to smooth out the road a bit (a little give and take on the body)?

 

I bought a strut bar and it really doesn't help. Everyone has told me that, but I still bought it mainly for looks. I also have spoon X-brace. It made the steering more stiff and the car feels more stable at high speeds.

 

I have the MUZ cross brace and it makes a world of difference to stiffen the steering and front end . You will notice the difference driving 5mph. It's the best mod for the money on any car I've ever had! Plus it doesn't restrict access to oil changes. I also have a STB and it is synergistic with the "X" brace.