PSS-9 HELP!

[lap]

I was just wondering if someone could help clear up some of my confusion (I know that can be a BIG job at times :rolleyes: )

I have a 2k2 Targa and am about to order pss-9s. I have heard that there is a different kit for the Targa/Cabriolet vs the Coupe. Is this correct or are they all the same?

TIA

lap

[alter_schwede]

there are different between C2 and C4, but not between Coupe/Cabrio/Targa, correct me if I'm wrong!

[lap]

The reason I was inquiring is that some have said that the Targa/Convertible versions might be different because of the extra weight in the T/C versions. I was just trying to get some clarity on the issue.

Thank You,

lap

[TD in DC]

I just added GT3 swaybars and PSS9s to my '02 Targa (purchased from Gert), and they are exactly the same set as for the C2. The weight differential is not that large, and, since the PSS9s are adjustable, you can account for the difference in your settings. Don't hesitate to install, they have made my car drive the way it should have from the factory. :clapping:

[lap]

Thanks for all the replies!

TDinDC did you add the GT3 Sways when you also installed the PSS9s, or before/after (ie. just wondering if you tried the car with just the PSS's first). Also, what height settings and shock settings (1-9) did you find works best for you.

One of the reasons I chose the PSS9's is that I wanted the utmost adjustability. I could really notice the difference (w. the Factory Std "SOFT" Suspension) in handling when I opened my roof (with more weight being transferred to the rear) vs. when the roof was closed.

Too bad the glass Targa roof is fed through the windshield during installation, for if it was easily removable (alla old Targa Style) It would be very interesting to do some comparitive testing. :D

[TD in DC]

Lap,

I added the swaybars when I installed the PSS9s simply because the bars were not that expensive and I wanted to reduce labor/balancing costs. I had everything installed by Charlie Murphy at Intersport, a local Porsche guru. I told them that I was not concerned about appearance (with respect to dropping the car), but that I wanted the car to handle like on rails but very well balanced. I also did not want it so stiff that I lost traction in rough roads, which is just about every road in my dear city (thanks for nothing Tony). The car is now about 1 1/2 inches lower (it does look great), and the setting are about 75% to the stiffest settings (I have the exact settings at home -- sorry).

Now, can you really tell a difference with the roof up or down, or could it be mostly psychological? I cannot tell a difference -- but I did know that the stock suspension setup was unacceptable -- like my father's oldsmobile. If it really does make a difference, I would expect to feel it between my two seat positions -- serious driving and laid back pimpin -- due to my, ahem, new "fatherly" profile and the weight I had to gain to achieve it.

[lap]

It sounds like you were seeking exactly what I'm looking for in my Targa: Handling on Rails w/ Street Pot-Hole Compliance.

I've had "some" experience setting up the older 911's (After all these years, I am almost close to having my 1989 Speedster "just right" ;) ) but found the stock 996 suspension w/ 17" factory wheels rode like a modern version of my Father's Monte Carlo, and unfortunately no where near the go-cart tossability of my tuned 1989.

I am quite particular about suspensions (have pretty much changed them all if I decided to keep the car for the "long haul") and that is why I chose the PSS9's: for it's adjustability.

As for the "psycological" effect: I am not a Doctor, but I do self-diagnose from time to time :P . Wait, maybe that is a cry for help :clapping: I can however, tell you with certainty, that MY Stock Non-Sport Suspension and 17" Factory Set up most "Definately" exihibits a difference with the roof open --with the open roof the front end / steering becomes MUCH lighter a-la-old-911 style.

I have started (my journey into "poor"dome) by replacing the 17's w/ HRE's 18x8(225) 18x10(295) and this has helped somewhat. Another test I tried was with the rear spoiler. I got to highway speed (ok, well just slightly over our 100km/hr limit :rolleyes: ) and opened the roof. The front end lightness returned. I manually lifted the spoiler (no I did not run out behind the car :P but used the underdash button -- I've got to re-wire that to the centre console one day!) and the front now really "seemed" to lift. When I drive the same speed with the roof closed, I cannot really tell "that much" of a difference when I engage the rear spoiler!

In summary, I can only assume that (similar to the older cars) when the suspension gets "tightened" up, the weight transfer would also follow suit.

[lap]

I've finally got my PSS-9s in!!!! :D :D :D

As I am getting the work done in an aftermarket shop (SOON!!!), is there anything that I should be purchasing from Porsche beforehand (factory bolts -can they be re-used, etc..) that will make the transition smoother/"more" proper??

Also, anyone do a Instruction Play-By-Play description that would assist me in ensuring that all is going as BILSTEIN planned? Are there any Caveats, minor or otherwise, Suggestions, etc??

Thanks Again!!!

lap