In a straight line our new suspension helped out as well, even with the rear Koni shocks still set at 1-turn from full stiff. Using the same tires as always, we laid down a 12.64 at 114.5 mph in the quarter, a gain of .348-seconds and 4.5 mph, which we attribute to the suspension transferring weight better and planting the rear tires, as we could finally use wide-open throttle in first and second gear. Overall, we were impressed by the new changes to the STI Killer's suspension and we can't wait to spend some more time in the driver seat. Going forward, we might even need to rename out project the C6 Killer, but that's an entirely different story that we're going to save for another issue!
Time to turn our attention...
Time to turn our attention to the front sway bar. Since we removed the endlinks earlier, dropping the sway bar only required removal of the four bolts attached to the sway bar mounts.
The bright red, 35mm sway...
The bright red, 35mm sway bar may look like a heavy beast, but thanks to its hollow construction, it actually weighs less than 15-lbs. Combined with the rest of our suspension, this sway bar will really help keep our Camaro planted, level, and in control.
BMR also supplies new endlinks...
BMR also supplies new endlinks with the sway bar kit, which attached through the stock lower control arms. It's best to leave these loose for now, you can tighten them down fully once the car is back on the ground and at ride height.
As with the front sway bar,...
As with the front sway bar, the rear removes easily as it is bolted to the 10-bolt rear end with four bolts and the two endlinks.
Like the front, you can install...
Like the front, you can install the endlinks now, but keep them loose until the car is at ride height. Also, take note of the new BMR sway bar bushings, which need to be lubed in order to work properly.
Time to remove the rear suspension...
Time to remove the rear suspension pieces, which come off much easier than the front. To start, Kyle removed the single shock-to-rear bolt and slid the shock out of the bracket. Then, using a jack, the rear can be slowly lowered and the spring will drop right out.
Since the STI Killer doesn't...
Since the STI Killer doesn't have rear seats, removing the upper shock nut was a simple procedure. For you full interior enthusiasts, you just need to fold the rear seat forward and move the carpet and foam block to access the nut.
With the rear end still supported...
With the rear end still supported by a jack, Greg slowly raised the 10-bolt while Kyle slid the Koni Sport (Yellow) shock in place. The new BMR 1.25-inch lowering springs slid in place effortlessly as well. With a 160-lbs/in spring rate these rear springs are also stiff, but built to complement the 550-lb/in fronts, giving a predictable feel front and rear.
Back up in the air, with the...
Back up in the air, with the shocks completely installed, Kyle slid a new pair of BMR Lower Control Arms in place. For all out track abuse, you may opt for a "double rod-ended" LCA; however, we went with a poly/rod combination, which is still adjustable and strong.