GarageLogic
08-21-2006, 05:24 PM
In a continuation of my series of modifications to the GTO, I bring you my answer to the wheel-hop problems experienced by many, if not all, of my fellow 2004-2006 GTO owners.
As you may be aware, the 2nd Gen GTO has an independent rear suspension, and while it certainly allows for a smooth ride and great cornering, it leaves something to be desired in regards to straight-line acceleration. It seems that the preferred solution to help reduce or eliminate the wheel-hop issues is to install a set of airbags between the rear coil springs to provide better weight transfer. These “drag bags” as they are known in the field, seem to be a tried and true solution, but the pain-in-the-butt install procedures (several hours) and price ($125-$179 and busted knuckles) seemed a little high to me to justify for my periodic quarter mile/eighth mile blasts.
At this point, I began to look at exactly what the bags did and see if there was a simpler solution. From all indications, the bags are simply filled with air which, in turn, effectively increases the rear spring-rate. This increased spring rate helps get the rear tires planted on the launch and greatly reduces the tendency of the rear end to “bounce” around.
My solution. I installed a set of coil-spring helpers you can buy at any parts store for around $15. It took me a total of 5 minutes per side to install them and it has significantly reduced the amount of wheel hop I was experiencing prior to their installation. When I get to the track, I am going to try a few passes with them, and then a couple without just to see what the net effect is.
As you may be aware, the 2nd Gen GTO has an independent rear suspension, and while it certainly allows for a smooth ride and great cornering, it leaves something to be desired in regards to straight-line acceleration. It seems that the preferred solution to help reduce or eliminate the wheel-hop issues is to install a set of airbags between the rear coil springs to provide better weight transfer. These “drag bags” as they are known in the field, seem to be a tried and true solution, but the pain-in-the-butt install procedures (several hours) and price ($125-$179 and busted knuckles) seemed a little high to me to justify for my periodic quarter mile/eighth mile blasts.
At this point, I began to look at exactly what the bags did and see if there was a simpler solution. From all indications, the bags are simply filled with air which, in turn, effectively increases the rear spring-rate. This increased spring rate helps get the rear tires planted on the launch and greatly reduces the tendency of the rear end to “bounce” around.
My solution. I installed a set of coil-spring helpers you can buy at any parts store for around $15. It took me a total of 5 minutes per side to install them and it has significantly reduced the amount of wheel hop I was experiencing prior to their installation. When I get to the track, I am going to try a few passes with them, and then a couple without just to see what the net effect is.