4200 ARB Uprade

[Carrera]

Hi All. Has anyone with an early 4200 tried fitting the ARB's from a GS and if so was it worth it? Mine are Front 28mm Rear 16mm GS are 31mm and 21mm. Thanks

 

[Zep]

Given that the GS handles a lot better and that springs, dampers and ARBs were the major difference, I would have though it would be an improvement. To my memory, I can’t remember anyone doing it though.

 

[Carrera]

Given that the GS handles a lot better and that springs, dampers and ARBs were the major difference, I would have though it would be an improvement. To my memory, I can’t remember anyone doing it though.

Thanks for that. However I am a little confused. My understanding is that springs and dampers are the same across all 4200 models but the ARB was uprated from 2003 from, F28/R16 to F31/R21, and then fitted across the range including GS. The GS however was lowered and had bigger 19" wheels. Some please correct me if I am wrong.

 

[Zep]

The part numbers for early 4200 springs are different from later (around 2003 ) 4200 and GS. So it depends how early you are talking about.

If you want to know which is which, the best way is to have a look on the Eurospares website. This will tell you when the parts changed, but not the spec.

 

[Gazcw]

Not sure FIFTY used GS parts but he upgraded his suspension/arb to good effect from memory.

 

[Carrera]

The part numbers for early 4200 springs are different from later (around 2003 ) 4200 and GS. So it depends how early you are talking about.

If you want to know which is which, the best way is to have a look on the Eurospares website. This will tell you when the parts changed, but not the spec.

Mine is a 2002 model so early. I can see the part number for springs and shocks changed in 2003 and then stayed the same for both coupe and GS for the rest of the production. Presuming the ARB's changed at the same time (2003) the only other thing that changed was the ride height of the car. Therefore if you had the later ARB's, springs and shocks you could lower the car to GS height and do an appropriate geometry set up and bob's you uncle - a 4200 GT with GS set up on 18" wheels. Any thoughts?

 

[TimR]

I believe the later 4200s and the GS shared springs...the ECU Skyhook algorithm was also rumoured to be updated for the GS though..Something Shoghi played about with. the ECU alone isnt always compatible however...
So a GS has very minimally larger arbs, same springs and a lower ride height- combined with the Skyhook update..
I dont read of anyone with a GS that hasnt complained they ride like ****. Its harsh & there isnt much option but sport mode becaue of the CC box software...
IMO, you have a manual car. Turning off Skyhook is a doddle. Change your springs to coilvers and you'll be amazed at the improvement in compliance and handling both...
The struts will be tired by now anyway...
There's alot of work in fitting the rear arb.
I fitted the FD arb kit. The quality is very acceptable. And fitted KW V3s..Its a very good improvement with comfort and handling both very much better...I reckon it drives better than any GS but then a three pedal car will always be more fun IMO...

 

[Carrera]

I believe the later 4200s and the GS shared springs...the ECU Skyhook algorithm was also rumoured to be updated for the GS though..Something Shoghi played about with. the ECU alone isnt always compatible however...
So a GS has very minimally larger arbs, same springs and a lower ride height- combined with the Skyhook update..
I dont read of anyone with a GS that hasnt complained they ride like ****. Its harsh & there isnt much option but sport mode becaue of the CC box software...
IMO, you have a manual car. Turning off Skyhook is a doddle. Change your springs to coilvers and you'll be amazed at the improvement in compliance and handling both...
The struts will be tired by now anyway...
There's alot of work in fitting the rear arb.
I fitted the FD arb kit. The quality is very acceptable. And fitted KW V3s..Its a very good improvement with comfort and handling both very much better...I reckon it drives better than any GS but then a three pedal car will always be more fun IMO...

Thanks for the advise. This is my second 4200 first one was a CC. Now loving the 3 pedal version even more! Cheers

 

[3hcp]

I’ve just bought the 31/21 bars for my 2002 spyder *** I’m doing exactly what you suggest, I’ll let you know how it goes.

 

[Carrera]

Would be very interested in hearing how that pans out. Because of the work needed to change the rear ARB I've ordered a set of Ceika coilovers which should be shipped this week. If they do not improve this I'll upgrade the ARB as well. Keep me posted