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!!
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 engineIf 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.
Your best option for a car this age is finding a salvage unit, not rebuilding it, which will cost more than the car is worth. You can use a regular floor jack for the transmission if you are careful. The engine support bar can be fabricated.
I just asked my husband this since he rebuilds cars as a hobby and he says go for the whole rebuild. But if you want to go ahead and get the tools and waste LOTS of time--pick the prior--even then, you might end up just jacking around. He said a bunch of other stuff, but I don't get car terms. Good luck with it there.
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.
