Suspension

BoarderTy · 02-19-2011, 10:41 PM

Alright so I dont have the money right now to get some nice struts so I'll just stick with the 35$ struts from the scrapyard. Now my question is do I have the FE2 or FE3 stock struts on my car? I have a 2000 gx 2.4l. I was told the fe3 came in the v6 and grand am gts they said they are stiffer would I be able to use them? Instead of fe2?

BoarderTy · 02-20-2011, 11:27 AM

02-20-2011, 11:28 AM

You have FE2 struts. FE3 struts are directly interchangable.

BoarderTy · 02-20-2011, 11:55 AM

which would you recommend? i can get a set of struts for the rear for 70 bucks.
would it matter if you had fe2 up front and fe3 in rear?

02-20-2011, 12:33 PM

I don't recommend mixing FE2 with FE3 - the valving for the dampers kis different. Use all FE2 parts, or all FE3.

falloutboy · 02-20-2011, 12:36 PM

Ho can I determine what suspension setup I have in my export version of the Alero?

02-20-2011, 03:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by falloutboy

Ho can I determine what suspension setup I have in my export version of the Alero?

Look at the underside of the spare tire cover in your trunk.
There should be a Service Parts Identification sticker which lists all the RPO codes for your vehicle.
On my car anyway, the FE2 code was on the first line.

falloutboy · 02-21-2011, 01:58 PM

thanks I'll check tomorrow.

irondiezl3 · 03-13-2011, 10:43 PM

whats the difference between fe2 and fe3 physically?

falloutboy · 03-14-2011, 04:41 PM

perhaps valving, hence damping.
either on compression or rebound, or both.

DUNNO

irondiezl3 · 03-14-2011, 11:23 PM

so if you put kyb struts andeibach springs and changed all your bushings and swaybar links to urethane u would have upgraded to even better than fe3?

Lucalare · 03-15-2011, 12:31 AM

Quite a bit better, but it would be a very stiff ride.

widbyj · 03-15-2011, 01:48 AM

^^Perfect answer!

I know it's not exactly the same but, my Malibu is running on the Eibach/Kyb setup with strut braces, poly bushings and the oversized swaybar which gives the feel of a slot-car racer. Riding on 18s is a bit harsh, last time around she had 17s and was noticeably softer. Reducing body roll is the major issue with all of these cars and improved control, however you get it, is the key to great handling.

irondiezl3 · 03-15-2011, 07:58 AM

right now i have front and rear strut bars, i have changed half of my bushings to eurethane (sorry for spelling) and kyb sturts and mounts are in the mail. i dont mind stiff. i just threw on some v rated tires. i would love to lose some body roll. i am considering grand am gt sway bars since i cant find aftermarket ones from what i read they are solid as apposed to hollow. i hate how much my car leans when i turn

robalero · 03-15-2011, 04:02 PM

mine are solid?