I just outfitted my 1999 9-3 SE with the steering brace on Tuesday night (a leisurely 2.5 hours, with my lack of power tools), so my impressions are still fresh. Unfortunately, the snow and icy roads have prevented me from fully testing its capacities, but I can tell you what I think so far.

Steering feel is greatly improved. This is not to say that the steering is harsh, but now I feel the bumps through the wheel a bit more, lending a more controlled sense of the road.

Accelerating over rough and slippery pavement is much more secure. Whereas before the steering wheel would shimmy on pavement ripples (say, turning uphill from a stop on our cruddy roads) now the wheel stays straight with a firm grip, and the road feels less uncertain when the wheels are clawing for traction. The same goes for straight-line acceleration; it just feels more sure-footed and secure without the rack slopping around in the big GM rubber bushing.

General tracking around turns feels more confident, though again, the snow tires and bad weather are keeping me reigned in a bit. I'm really enjoying the communication from the front wheels that was lacking before.

I think you will like it. My bushings are still in good shape, so the car wasn't totally "transformed" as people with older cars have found, but I definitely love the improved road feel, precision, and manners the brace has given my steering. Abbott was a pleasure to deal with, and delivered my VRK from overseas within a week of my ordering. Everything fit well, the materials are high quality, and it was easy to install (13 mm socket + box wrench, 17 mm socket, a needle file, and a Swiss Army Knife were all I needed).

Best,

Lutfisk

posted by 24.59.101...

• Thinking of fitting Abbott's steering bracket., StanleyB, Sat, 25 Jan 2003 12:16:42
  • Re: Thinking of fitting Abbott's steering bracket., Lutfisk, Sat, 25 Jan 2003 13:50:33 <-- Viewing This Message
    • Re: Thinking of fitting Abbott's steering bracket., AndyW, Tue, 28 Jan 2003 05:02:47
      • buying in pieces isn't a good bargain, davenew, Tue, 28 Jan 2003 17:36:38
        • Re: buying in pieces isn't a good bargain, Lutfisk, Thu, 20 Feb 2003 22:36:28

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