RE: Suspension

["Piecuch, Benjamin HS" <piecuch@hsd.utc.com>]

I understand why the suspension is different, i.e. sportier/heavier 
engine, etc...  But I'd like to know specifics, such as spring rates,
shock damping, sway bar thicknesses.  And when you say completely
different suspension, am I correct in saying that the geometry and
type are the same?  They didn't change linkage geometry (with the
possible exception of ride height) or linkage type, from solid beam 
to trailing arm, for example.  If anyone has detailed info, please let 
me know....

			BEN



> -----Original Message-----
> From:	Khan Klatt [SMTP:kmk@pacificrim.net]
> Sent:	Thursday, September 16, 1999 2:09 PM
> To:	jettaglx@igtc.com
> Subject:	RE: Suspension
> 
> At 8:18 AM -0400 9/16/99, Piecuch, Benjamin     HS wrote:
> >I'm wondering how the stock GLX suspension setup differs
> >from the stock GL/GLS setup in the A3 chassis.  I know
> >the sway bars are a little thicker, but what about Spring
> >Rates, shocks, etc...?  Did VW just put stiffer springs with
> >the same shocks, or did they swap everything out?  My
> >'98 GLX has about 40k miles on it, and it feels much more
> >loose than when I bought it.  I can't imagine that the shocks
> >are going downhill already.  Any help on this?
> 
> The A3 Jetta GLS/GL/TDI's all had the same suspension from the factory.
> 
> The A3 Jetta GLX had a completely different suspension from the 
> factory. If for no other reason than having to support a LOT more 
> weight in the front of the car (the VR6 is much heavier than the 2.0L 
> 4 or the 1.9L TD).
> 
> The stock suspension for the GLX was far more "sporty" than the 
> regular suspension, but not to the tastes of many many listmembers 
> who have gone to the aftermarket to get more sport-tuned suspensions 
> (myself included).
> 
> -Khan