RS Springs on Non-RS Sonics

[Musichatesyouall]

Does anyone have this setup? Specifically on the LTZ, if that makes a difference.

I've got a set of RS springs in transit and I'm wanting to hear about the ride after install and what kind of height difference I'm going to get.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Stew]

As it happens, I have this exact setup, an LTZ with RS springs.

Honestly I couldn't tell any difference in ride quality, which is good since I happen to like the ride as is. I could tell at first it looked a little lower but it just looks normal now.

 

[Musichatesyouall]

That's exactly what I wanted to hear. I'm glad the ride is the same and I'm glad it's not a huge drop. Have before and after pics of the drop?

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[Stew]

Unfortunately I don't. I did at first, I took a couple before and after pics with a tape measure to see just how much lower it would turn out but with my really awesome picture taking skills they didn't show much.

The weird thing which I wasn't expecting was the wheels appeared to be slightly more inset after installing the RS springs. They weren't of course, it was just one of those strange optical things I guess. But again now that I've had them on for a while it all just looks normal.

I did the install myself following the stickied thread in the DIY section, it was pretty easy, just went and rented a spring compressor from the local auto part store and used my impact wrench.

 

[Musichatesyouall]

Right on. I'm also doing the diy method. I wonder if they appeared to be inset because of the slight negative camber introduced by lowering slightly.

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[Stew]

Hey, checking in to see if you got the RS springs on, and if so how do you like them?

 

[Musichatesyouall]

I haven't gotten them on just yet. Thanks for checking in. I'll let you know when I get them on.

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[Natesriv]

you can buy some camber bolts to adjust the camber. I use them on my lowered 1.4.. no problem with tire wear or tracking...

 

[Musichatesyouall]

Hey Stew,

Just letting you know that I've since put on the RS Springs and I really like them. I didn't get before/after ruler pics like I would have liked, but I think it dropped it less than or around an 1". Cornering definitely feels stiffer and the ride is a bit stiffer overall.

 

[gtp]

Has anyone done this to an LT? Would I need the whole RS suspension? Springs, shocks (struts) and sway bar(s)?

If so where is everyone ordering these from online?

Thanks
G

 

[Stew]

I heard the LT shocks and struts have firmer settings than an LTZ. You would definitely be just fine with only swapping springs if you want, you would likely not notice much difference except for being about 10mm lower.

 

[gtp]

Thanks Stew.

 

[mightysonic]

Has anyone done this to an LT? Would I need the whole RS suspension? Springs, shocks (struts) and sway bar(s)?

If so where is everyone ordering these from online?

Thanks
G

I have the GM Performance Suspension kit on my LTZ hatch. Definitely makes a difference and it's surely liveable on a daily basis. I think it's rated for about a .75" drop.

I picked mine up from Jeg's a few months back for around $460 shipped. I would recommend the setup. Haven't gone with any sway bars or anything, perhaps down the road at some point.

 

[gtp]

I have the GM Performance Suspension kit on my LTZ hatch. Definitely makes a difference and it's surely liveable on a daily basis. I think it's rated for about a .75" drop.

I picked mine up from Jeg's a few months back for around $460 shipped. I would recommend the setup. Haven't gone with any sway bars or anything, perhaps down the road at some point.

Thanks mighty, did you use the RS or NON RS package?

 

[mightysonic]

Thanks mighty, did you use the RS or NON RS package?

I believe this link will get you the RS struts that are paired with the GM lowering springs. This kit is meant for ALL non-RS sonics.Chevrolet Performance 23158161, Chevrolet Performance Sonic Performance Suspension Kit | Chevrolet Performance

Product description:
Chevrolet Performance designed the Sonic performance suspension kit to optimize the vehicles handling, center of gravity, steering response and improving the stance. This kit utilizes the Sonic RS's fast-reacting shock valving and front struts, lowering the base model by 20mm. The rear springs and shocks are also redesigned to accommodate the new suspension travel. This tuned suspension system is a perfect compliment to the already Sonic's performance-oriented wheels and tires.


Wow just looking at this now...looks like it went up by $100. Glad I pulled the trigger when I did!

I hope I answered your question.

 

[Stew]

The only difference between the RS and non-RS Chevrolet Performance Suspension Kit is that the kit for the RS Sonics does not include the struts and shocks since the RS Sonics already have RS struts and shocks.

The springs are the same between the two, non-RS Sonics will be lowered 20mm and RS Sonics are only lowered 10mm because they are already 10mm lower to start with.

I'm sure you guys already know this but I thought it would clarify things for those that did not.
http://www.chevrolet.com/performance/sonic-parts.html