Sorry to bring this up, but the "Reduce roll" thread closed before I could ask my question.

QNS: How does the LTB differ from the Front Sway Bar (FSB)? Reading the description of the LTB it sounds an awful lot like an FSB. Would a larger diameter FSB have the same effect as an LTB?

Please comment

 

LTB = chassis stiffness

FSB = Sway bar? Roll stiffness

FSB = strut tower brace? Chassis stiffness

I don't think they make an aftermarket front swaybar for the 5 gen

 

LTB: Lower Tie Bar
FSB: Front Sway Bar

Lower tie bars are already on the max. This is the bar that connects the two tires and turns them equally. The Front Sway Bar is a bar that is added and increases the regidity of the LTB. They both essentially do the same thing.

 

You beat me to it. And, just for reference, i've never seen a FSB for the 5th gen.

 

wtf? Did I stutter or something?

 

Sorry 1 more Qns?

Can one go TOO far with the sway bars, tie bars and such? I guess this is more of a fundamental question. But if these "bars" improve handling w/o reducing ride quality, why would all manufacturers make huge lower tie bars for their "sporty" models.

Just Brainstorming here:
- Is it because their IS a loss with the improved roll characteristics? (ie. reduce ride quality)
- Is it a cost issue? seems unlikely considering how cheaply BlehmCo, Stillen and such sell parts for

I guess what I am ultimately asking is what are the drawbacks (negatives) with adding strong swaybars/ LTBs (I am aware of the oversteering issue with the RSBs)

Just curious. thanks for the info in advance.

 

Jeff,

Sorry about that...Just reread the whole thread.

OK no more questions from me today. Thanks guys

 

Chassis can never be too stiff. And you CAN go too far with springs/shocks/sway bars. But for one NO one makes a frt sway bar for the 5-gen that I know of. And if they did, I really doubt it will be designed TOO big. They usually error on the soft side perse. Rear bar. I don't think there is actually a rear bar that is TOO far. It's the rear beam design that kills you guys, not a too stiff rear bar.

 

the FSB thats already in there is f'n huge...

 

No. I was typing and entered my post seconds after you did.

 

Just for reference. The 3-gen oem bar is hollow. The ST stiffer bar is the same dia but solid.

 

Ours is solid (5th gen) IIRC

 

let me clear a few things up:

1. The lower tie bar comes in two types:
- stage 1, which connects the control arm bush pin assemblies.
- stage 2, which conntects the control arms AND the front subframe.

The tie bar doesn't "stiffen the ride," it provides better steering input/respons, and less "twist" of the front subframe (which in turn flattens the front end out without altering the suspension itself).

The reason manufacturers don't install LTBs: it reduces ground clearance, since it goes UNDER the tranny.

As noted above, the front SWAY bar on the 5th gens have no aftermarket replacement at this time (though you can put poly bushings on it).

the front STRUT TOWER BRACE (FSTB) has a much more subtle effect and doesn't really effect the "lean" of the car. It is (like the LTB) a frame brace/stiffener, but just not as effective as a LTB.

All in all, the LTB is a great addition unless you are lowered alot, or live in areas with uneven roads/raised manhole covers/etc...

 

you have them backwards, donkey. There is an FSB stock. There is NO LTB stock...

go back to paining the old engine cover George.

 

you beat me to it...