I just got mine in the mail today... I have a few questions before actually installing it...

I've read that the FSTB is suppose to be "loose" and "flexible"... what does that mean? I know that have to torque the C shaped part to 30-40 lbs... but what about the piece that holds the C shaped part to the actual bar? Is that suppose to be tight or loose?

Also, I got the Matrix Bar, so its size is adjustible.. so shoudl i size it out to fit before i put it on ? or can i screw the C parts onto the car first.. then since the bar and the C parts can be disconnected, adjust the bar at will then tighten?

 

Hey guys,

For those of you who already have a strut bar on there car, I was wondering what kind of strut bar should I get. I looked on NOPI and they have the freedom design, tsudo, and #1 strut bar for a 98 Max. I know they all do the same thing, so should i Just get the #1 strut bar or the go with the most expensive one? I just needed some suggestions. Thanks

Man Choi
98 Max Se 5spd w/ simple bolt ons

 

Well, "loose and flexible" probably means that it shouldn't be tightened too much. That's why the bolts have to be torqued to a specific 30-40 lbs. This prevents overtightening (overtightening can cause the bolts to be ripped right off, not good) but gives it enough stiffness to provide safe stability. The actual bar that connects the two C claws should be tightened to a comfortable level, tight enough so that the FSTB won't jiggle around if you shook it.

For any FSTB, it is best to take a preliminary measurement. Find a width so that the bar can sit there without falling over. (Have the holes in the C claws fit into the screws of your struts). And once that's done, tighten one side. Go to the other side, and if it feels like it's still a little loose, adjust the width a bit more, and then tighten that side.

Be sure to use a torque wrench. Have fun!

[Edited by Ch12i5 on 01-11-2001 at 12:41 AM]

 

I was more economical and purchaced the #1 strut bar.. they work fine and the little logo on it looks cool too... you answered your own question.. you know they all work the same and do the same.. it's just a matter of $$ and style (for the FSTB).