Clio Cup upgrades
Suspension from Gaz
Published: 18 July, 2014
The Renault Clio 2 172 and 178 Cup models were stripped down versions designed for performance and obviously appeal to track day and competition users. Gaz has produced two coil-over suspension upgrades for 2001 to 2005 models - GHA is for track day and fast road use and a Gold version is for competition purposes. An adjuster knob on the GHA and side knob on the Gold adjust ride height by -25mm to -50mm. Gold coilovers have a gas cell in the outer reservoir to prevent cavitation and are filled with a high viscosity multi-grade fluid to prevent fade under motorsport conditions. All the units are individually tested before leaving the factory and covered by a two-year warranty for non-competition use.
- Approved parts
Steering and suspension parts are at the heart of what Optimal does and its programme includes more than 4,500 part numbers which can be found on TecDoc and MAM, with over 85% of part numbers available from UK stocks, the rest coming from its German warehouses. Every part of the front and rear suspension is available, from joints to tie rod assemblies, control arms and stabilisers. The firm is a TUV approved supplier, with its parts undergoing regular inspections throughout the entire manufacturing process. The firm continues to expand its product range and its next target for the steering and suspension range is over 5,000 different part numbers.
- Replace in pairs
To prevent compromising safety, TRW is promoting the message to replace shock absorbers in pairs. The firm conducted tests with a differing damping force on one shock, which showed a significant improvement in car performance when they were replaced in pairs rather than individually, especially when a vehicle is changing lanes or under emergency braking. The firm has been campaigning for years to have the shock absorber classified as a safety critical part and included in the annual roadworthiness tests. Belgium has adopted this stance already.
- Restricted flow will cause a whine
A power steering reservoir for the Chrysler Grand Voyager 3.3i 2001 to 2006 and Voyager 3.3i 2001 to 2004 is available from Blue Print. When this filter becomes contaminated and partially blocked, flow is restricted and this usually results in an abnormal whine from the power steering pump which tends to be worse from a cold start-up and at slow speeds. As long as the pump hasn't been starved of fluid for too long, the problem can be fixed with a replacement reservoir which has a new filter and the addition ofsome fresh fluid. Before fitting this direct replacement part, the firm advises that you drain as much of the original fluid from the system as possible before filling with fluid of the correct specification.
- KYB demonstration
KYB demonstrate how to replace front suspension struts on a Ford Fiesta V and a Mazda II
- Key parts
The Key Parts steering and suspension range was introduced by First Line last September and now comprises almost 500 part numbers including wishbones, rack ends, tie rod ends, stabiliser links and ball joints. Popular applications include stabiliser links for Peugeot 206 and Vauxhall Vectra, Corsa and Saab 9-5, tie rod ends for Vauxhall Corsa and ball joints for Renault Megane II and Scenic 2003 onwards. The Key Parts range were introduced as a cost-effective repair option and come with a 12-month or 12,000 mile warranty from time of fitment.
