Why upgrade the transmission, suspension and brakes??

Question

i read on another question where someone asked how to make an integra faster and someone answered that they should upgrade the transmission, brakes and I think the suspension too before they start making the car faster but why would you want to upgrade those?? Oh and what are flame decals and a cold air intake??? Thanks a lot in advance to those who choose to answer!!

Answer 1

A cold air intake is a more direct air channel to the engine's intake; in place of the stock intake system, you have a system that gets air directly from the front of the car, feeding greater volume of air to the intake. In addition, since the air is being channeled from the outside instead of within the engine compartment, the air will also be cooler and denser.



However, modifications done to the intake must be balanced with modifications to the exhaust; the more air you can pull in, the more air you should be able to get out.



The transmission should be "hardened" to improve its reliability under the greater demands it will be put under, such as implementing auxiliary cooling as well as a high performance flywheel and clutch. You could even redo the gearing ratios to better match the characteristics of the engine as well as finding ways to improve the performance and durability of the shifter.



Brakes should be improved because you need to stop. Better brakes will function better and not fade as quickly and will stand up to the greater demands.



Suspension should be properly upgraded to allow for better handling and braking. Clipping springs to merely make the car ride lower is not enough, not to mention dangerous as this compromises the performance of the suspension system, negating the advantage of low center of gravity.



You also have to find ways to stiffen up the chassis to reduce flexing, which will also help to improve handling.



You may also consider stripping the interior to just the essentials. This means just the seats, restraints, dashboard, and instruments. This is done to reduce weight, putting more of the available power to get the car to move fast and to improve handling.



The mention of flame decals was a joke. This is in reference to people who try to make their cars *look* like they're fast from a purely cosmetic point of view instead of actually being fast.



There's lots to consider to make a car into something you could race instead of just the engine.



But, also consider that this can negatively affect the practicality of the car itself; turning it into something that can truly perform will be a compromise to various things, particularly comfort and reliability.



And, doing the job thoroughly and right will not only require expertise, but will cost you a good sum of money. And, in addition, because of the work and money that went into the car, you may be hesitant to really want to push it around because of fear if wrecking it.



Really think hard about whether you want to do this or not.

Answer 2

I have a 56. If you don't know, anything 56 fits 55 and v v. That includes the doors. If you are trying to upgrade to a dual braking system, it will be a problem. I couldn't find any retrofit plans that were proven. Good restoration guy told me it can be done, but it's a nightmare of fabrication. I decided to stay with what I have and replace parts as needed. The rubber brakes hoses are a huge danger as they were always prone to blowing out. Stay on top of that. The suspension would be easier as there are any number of shocks that will fit and do ten times better than back-in-the-day. Forget changing the steering. That's not practical on any level of ability. If you have the time, money and interest, keep this thing original and get it in fine condition. Again, and you probably know, you have a single brake system. One hose pops and you have zero stopping ability. .......and get lap and shoulder belts for the front seat. Most any belts you can pick up at the junk yard will work and be an easy install.

Answer 3

I own a Subaru WRX, another one of those cars that people ask similar questions about...

The main reason to upgrade brake and suspension is that you want the car to be able to handle the extra power you will be adding to it.. shorter acceleration times equal longer braking times, and putting down more power on corners puts more stress on springs, struts, and bushings, not to mention motor and trans mounts, so don't forget them too. If possible change out your steering rack mountings as well, as it will quicken response when turning into a corner. If you upgrade the chassis as a whole, you may have to learn to drive the car all over again, as I did. You want the frame and suspension to be able to make the most of whatever power your car is making; meaning keeping tires in contact with the road as much as possible. Better brakes can even make a car faster ( in lap times), as the story of the original Ford GT-40 proves.. by increasing braking, they were able to keep the car at top speed those few tenths of a second longer, shaving whole seconds off their lap times.

A cold air intake is a welcome mod to any street car, but knowing how to apply one properly is key.. I've seen a few Acura RS-X owners stuff the air intake down in the fenderwell.. only to destroy their engine later after driving through shallow water, and hydrolocking the engine..If you insist on fitting a CAI, mount it high, and insulate it well from engine heat.. either padded sheet metal, or through various kits available for these cars.. Think mods through before building, ask questions, and learn from others' mistakes.