http://www.procarparts.com/store/dis...m?pid=SB-maxfr

It says that it is 4mm. I think the standard is 3mm. Is this FSTB any better than any others? Does anyone have this installed in their car?

Thanks.

 

Looks like it should work fine. It appears similar to the Vibrant bar. All FSTB's work the same...the visual aspect of them is the only difference.

 

I've seen that one before too. My question is, if that one's $33.99 and the Stillen one is $187.95 on sale, how much better is Stillen's? I find it strange that there's such a large gap in prices there. I know little about them, just curious before I make a purchase too. Same with the Addco or Stillen RSB, about a $100 less for the Addco.

http://www.stillen.com/sportscars_de...d=12985&page=1

 

I've also heard that the flat FSTBs aren't as strong as the more rounded ones. But this one from Procarparts.com claims to be 4mm which is thicker than others I am assuming?

So is there any difference between a flatter vs. rounder FSTB - also given the fact that this flat bar is 4mm?

One more thing I noticed and don't know if it is important or not is that the base of the FSTB come as either a "C" shape or "O" shape. Both bases only use 3 bolts to screw it down. Is there a difference?

... and yes... why is the Stillen FSTB so much more expensive? Is it better in any way?

 

Stillen parts are always overpriced. Never buy from them directly.

I remember reading a post awhile back that explained (using physics) how the rounder, hollow FSTB's are more rigid than the solid FSTB's. However, I doubt there would ever be enough force exerted on a FSTB in real life to test that theory, so I don't think you should worry about it.
There isn't much difference between the 'c' and 'o' brackets. I had a Vibrant FSTB awhile ago, and it was easier to take on and off than the Stillen FSTB is that I have now, but that's splitting hairs.

 

is it the fact that it is aluminum that makes it cheap? Is it going to be as strong as say a steel bar?

 

That helps, thanks ljl10. Any idea about the RSB differences between Addco and Stillen? I read a post last week about the Stillen one being more secure, therefore better. Though I don't know how much of a difference it is. Anyone have a preference either way?

 

The Stillen RSB is adjustable. The Addco isn't.

 

I have that FSTB in my car only mine isn't drilled like that one is. That one looks excellent.

Oh, and yes, it works quite well

 

The Stillen one that I have is made very well. If you get one, zinc plate those bolts that come with it so they don't rust (like mine, grrr...go figure, the bolts rust but not the nuts). I've never seen an Addco bar in person but I've heard it doesn't fit as well.

 

Aluminum is not cheaper, nor is it stronger. But aluminum is more easily extruded and machined , as the case with FSTBs.

Speedemn: Rounder would be better. The nature of the bending loads incurred on an FSTB are in a vertical direction. Unfortunately there is not enough room between the engine and hood on a Maxima for a round sectioned FSTB.

 

Err correction There are no fitment issues. Just user error. You need to match up the brackets properly. IMO the stillen RSB is for people who want to or know how to adjust their suspention. Maybe for racing applications, maybe autocross. I bought installed the ADDCO very nice.