Re: Misc. Info. Requested

[ANDREW_ATWELL@HP-PaloAlto-om20.om.hp.com]

Item Subject: Misc. Info. Requested
     Get a chip, I have and prefer the Autotech (i've driven the Nuespeed 
     and didn't like it as much).  I recommend a K&N or Abt filter element 
     (rather than P-flow).  I would hold off on exhausts not really proven 
     to increase power significantly (unless also adding new intake, 
     T-body, and Cams), Shift lever is easy, just remove boot from center 
     council (held with elastic under collar) and then unscrew knob, 
     sometimes dificult to start but isn't glued.  I would recomend cutting 
     down the lever (1.125inche) at the same time you change knobs (shorter 
     throw) find out if new knob is threaded (will need to re-thread lever) 
     or held with a set screw.  17" wheels look great but can be a pain 
     (bending, rubbing etc.) I would recomend 205/45/16". ALWAYS make sure 
     the aftermarket wheels are "Hub Centric".  All your listed tires sound 
     great but will be quite expensive and wear quickly. (I understand the 
     Nitto is actually treadwear rated at 300 which is impressive).  
     Springs, shocks and struts are a tremendous addition.  I would never 
     recomend doing springs with out  shocks and Struts (S&S).  Your new 
     springs will over power the old S&S and give you the po-go stick 
     effect.  If you do springs and S&S you really should get a front upper 
     strut stabilizer bar, it helps the car work with the new stiffer 
     suspension.  All strut bars are the same, get the cheapest (ie. 
     neuspeed).  I have the SPAX system and love it, it is lower than some 
     peoples tastes though.  Their quaility is excellent and the ride is 
     great and fully adjustible, yes I do use the adjustments (not too hard 
     to do) and it allows the system to match anyones tastes.  Neuspeeds 
     springs are very good (made by H&R if you want to order direct) AVOID 
     Eibach like the HIV virus, I have never heard anything good about them 
     on VW's sometimes they don't even fit.  Bilsteins are excellent S&S 
     but pricey, Boges are good and inexpensive, SPAX is priced in the 
     middle and is A LOT cheaper than anyother adjustible system (ie. koni, 
     tokico)  My best street system would be H&R sport lowering springs 
     (nuespeed)and the SPAX adjustible S&S.  Great ride and handling, 
     adjustible, and the car will have a clean lower stance but not quite 
     as low as the SPAX. (Ron's Auto Parts for spax)
     andy


______________________________ Reply Separator _________________________________
Subject: Misc. Info. Requested
Author:  Non-HP-owner-jettaglx (owner-jettaglx@igtc.com) at HP-PaloAlto,shargw6
Date:    4/15/97 6:44 PM


Hello Fellow GLX Owners:
     
I'm looking to upgrade the performance on my 96 GLX.  I'm wondering if 
anyanoe can comment on the following upgrades as to which item is worth the 
bang for the buck:
     
1.  E-Prom Chip -- Autothority, Neuspeed or Autotech
     
2.  K&N Filter -- Neuspeed or ABD (Autobahn Designs)
     
3.  Cat back exhaust sys:  Techtonics, Autotech, etc....
     
4.  How hard is it to change the shift lever knob to an aftermarket?
     
5.  What's the best looking 17" aftermarket wheel assembly for the GLX?
     
6.  Tires to match?  Are the Dunlops SP 8000 as quiet as they say while still 
maintaining good grip/handling?  How about the Pirellis, Conti CZ(s), Nittos 
and Piliot XGT(s)?
     
7.  Sport springs and shocks/struts?  Is it necessary to purchase 
shocks/struts when installing lowered springs?  What are the best out there?
 Does anyone actually use the adjustments on the Spax setups???????
     
All is apreciated.
     
Mike