Читать книгу Camaro 5th Gen 2010-2015 - Scott Parker F. - Страница 8

CHAPTER 2

CHASSIS: SUSPENSION, BRAKES, WHEELS AND TIRES

As I mentioned in the Introduction, the fifth-generation Camaro came factory-equipped for world-class handling. Those demanding even greater capabilities can often look to the next model in the line, though aftermarket variants certainly have their advantages as well. In this chapter I cover how to swap from other models, as well as aftermarket options to enhance the Camaro’s handling. In addition, I also cover how to adapt the fifth-gen’s suspension and other components for use on street/strip and dedicated drag racing setups.

Although conventional thought led many to believe an independent rear suspension (IRS) could not survive under severe drag racing duty, there are now 6-second Outlaw Drag Radial cars with IRS and it won’t be long before a Camaro goes as fast in the quarter-mile. The COPO program has helped make a solid axle swap for dedicated race cars a reality without months of expensive fabrication work. Options are truly plentiful for fifth-gen Camaro owners looking to go fast.

Chassis turning a solid axle COPO and a Camaro with factory independent rear suspension are quite different, but make no mistake, hard launches and wheelies are still possible at the dragstrip.

Suspension

Many of the standard modifications such as springs, sway bars, and bushings are extremely effective on the fifth-gen platform. However, serious enthusiasts should also consider shocks, trailing arms, and control to gain full control of the Camaro’s chassis.

Springs

Lowering springs are typically the first stop for any street performance enthusiast wanting to improve handling. Although the manufacturer is concerned with ground clearance and ride quality, enthusiasts don’t care about these things. So whether you are talking about a V-6, SS, or even a ZL1, lowering springs is a cost-effective means of improving the look and handling of your Camaro. Thankfully the market is flooded with springs to suit your needs.

Industry staples such as Eibach, H&R, and Hotchkis, as well as companies specializing in GM muscle cars such as Detroit Speed & Engineering, BMR Suspension, SLP Performance, MTI Racing, LSR Performance, and LG Motorsports all make lowering springs for the fifth-gen. Installation cost is usually quite reasonable because you can reuse the factory shocks, but a fresh alignment is required.