Fitting new suspension - GDB WRX

Hi guys,

So I've got my new Bilstein adjustable suspension ready to go onto my 01 WRX Sti Type RA.

Rather than getting my mechanic to fit it, I was hoping to do this myself - I'm fairly handy on the tools and have a good workshop set up (tools, jack stands, etc).

I need to use my current top hats, which I've been told by Suspension Direct (where I got the suspension) will work fine.

Is this a simple bolt off, bolt on process? Do I need to 'compress' anything (I.e. springs)?

Any tips and advice from people that've done this?

I would use spring compressors for sure. And the easiest and best way to get the nut off is a rattle gun. You can be sure it is properly tight, and that you won't be spinning the shaft excessively which is bad for the seals. You can just ask a local garage to undo them (often for nothing), switch the top hats on the spot, and rattle the nuts back on. Five minutes work once the springs are compressed. Take them away and decompress/ seat the springs again in your own time. My twin cents anyway.

I'm no mechanic, but have swapped shocks loads of times. Its pretty straight forward as described. I'm with GC8E2DD on the spring compressor's, definitely makes life a lot easier. I'd also have to agree on using a rattle gun to loosen the top nut as its rather difficult without one, can't imagine there's not a lot of room (particularly in rear) to loosen it with shocks in the car.

Another point I though was worth mentioning is to ensure the top spring retainer in correctly orientated. I marked mine with a white marker before removing the top hats.