VE Commodore Strut Top Upgrade for Improved Handling
VE Commodore Strut Top Upgrade for Improved Handling
Blog Article
VE Commodore Strut Top Upgrade for Improved Handling
The VE Commodore, a beloved Australian-made vehicle from Holden, has built a strong reputation for performance, comfort, and versatility. But for those looking to push their VE Commodore's handling to the next level, upgrading the strut tops can make a noticeable difference. Strut tops, also known as strut mounts or upper strut bearings, are a key component in a vehicle's suspension system. When modified or upgraded, they can significantly enhance the car’s handling, ride quality, and overall driving experience. This article will dive into the benefits of upgrading the strut tops in your VE Commodore, how it works, and why it's worth considering if you want to improve your ride's performance. ve commodore strut top
What Are Strut Tops, and Why Do They Matter?
Strut tops are the upper mounting points of the suspension struts, located at the top of the vehicle's front suspension. They are critical components of the MacPherson strut suspension system, which is common in many modern vehicles, including the VE Commodore. The strut tops are composed of bearings and rubber elements that allow the strut to pivot when the vehicle turns, while also providing a cushion that helps to absorb road imperfections and vibrations.
Over time, factory strut tops can wear out, especially in vehicles driven aggressively or over long distances. As the rubber components degrade, they can lose their ability to properly absorb impacts, leading to a decrease in handling performance, increased road noise, and overall discomfort. Replacing or upgrading the strut tops can help resolve these issues and significantly improve the vehicle's handling and comfort.
Benefits of Upgrading Strut Tops
1. Enhanced Steering Response
One of the most noticeable benefits of upgrading your VE Commodore's strut tops is the improvement in steering response. Strut tops help to anchor the suspension system, and when they wear out or become too soft, it can lead to a lack of precision in steering. Upgrading to high-quality strut tops—especially those with stronger materials like polyurethane—provides a more direct connection between the strut and the chassis. This reduces flex and increases the precision with which the car responds to steering inputs, providing a sharper, more responsive feel on the road.
2. Improved Handling and Stability
Strut tops play a pivotal role in your vehicle’s suspension geometry, which affects overall handling. Worn or degraded strut tops can lead to uneven suspension travel and an increase in body roll during turns. Upgrading to performance-oriented strut tops, such as those made from stronger rubber or polyurethane, ensures better control over suspension movement. This leads to reduced body roll, better grip through corners, and a more stable driving experience, particularly when pushing the car hard through bends or during high-speed maneuvers.
Additionally, performance strut tops often come with better bearings that reduce friction and resistance, further enhancing handling performance and contributing to a smoother ride over rough surfaces.
3. Smoother Ride Quality
Upgrading the strut tops in your VE Commodore can also improve ride quality. While aftermarket performance strut tops are typically firmer than stock parts, they can provide a more controlled and consistent ride. By reducing the amount of play and friction in the suspension system, the vehicle is better equipped to handle bumps, potholes, and other road imperfections. The strut tops essentially act as a buffer between the suspension and the car's chassis, absorbing some of the impacts while providing a more stable, less jarring ride.
In addition, upgrading to polyurethane or performance rubber strut tops helps reduce the occurrence of unwanted noises that often come from worn-out suspension components. This contributes to a quieter, more comfortable cabin experience.
4. Increased Durability and Longevity
One of the key reasons to upgrade your strut tops is for their durability. Standard OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) strut tops tend to wear out over time, especially in harsh driving conditions. They may develop cracks in the rubber or lose their ability to provide proper cushioning. Performance strut tops, particularly those made from high-strength materials such as polyurethane or solid rubber, are designed to withstand the rigors of more aggressive driving, including hard cornering and uneven road surfaces. As a result, they tend to last longer, saving you from frequent replacements and reducing long-term maintenance costs.
5. Better Alignment and Suspension Geometry
Aftermarket strut tops, especially those designed for performance, often come with adjustable features that allow for fine-tuning the alignment of your suspension. Some strut tops allow for caster and camber adjustments, which can optimize your VE Commodore’s handling for different driving conditions. Adjusting the alignment can help correct suspension geometry that may have drifted over time, ensuring that the tires make optimal contact with the road for maximum performance and even tire wear.
These adjustments can be particularly useful for those who participate in motorsports or driving events where precise suspension tuning is crucial for optimal handling.
Types of Strut Top Upgrades for the VE Commodore
When looking to upgrade the strut tops on your VE Commodore, there are several options available depending on your performance needs and driving style. Here are the main types of strut top upgrades to consider:
1. Polyurethane Strut Tops
Polyurethane strut tops are a popular choice for those looking to improve handling performance while maintaining a good balance between comfort and stiffness. Polyurethane is firmer than the rubber used in OEM parts, which provides better durability and more precise suspension control. Polyurethane strut tops reduce the flex and give that can occur in stock rubber mounts, which translates to improved handling and steering precision.
However, polyurethane can transmit more road noise and vibrations into the cabin, which might be a trade-off for some drivers. It’s important to balance your performance needs with comfort when choosing this upgrade.
2. Performance Rubber Strut Tops
If you're seeking a smoother ride but still want enhanced performance, upgraded performance rubber strut tops could be a great option. These strut tops maintain the cushioning properties of the OEM rubber while providing better durability and resistance to wear. Performance rubber is designed to handle more strain and stress, offering improved handling without compromising ride comfort too much. This option is ideal for those who drive their Commodore daily but want a noticeable improvement in their suspension system.
3. Adjustable Strut Tops
For more serious performance enthusiasts, adjustable strut tops are an excellent choice. These allow you to fine-tune the suspension alignment, including adjustments to caster and camber. With adjustable strut tops, you can tailor the handling characteristics of your VE Commodore based on your driving preferences, whether you’re looking for more aggressive cornering ability or better tire wear on the road. Adjustable strut tops are particularly useful for those who track their vehicles or participate in motorsports, where fine suspension tuning is crucial for optimal performance.
How to Install a Strut Top Upgrade
Upgrading the strut tops on your VE Commodore is not a complex task, but it does require some mechanical knowledge and the right tools. Here’s an overview of the general steps involved:
- Lift and Secure the Vehicle: Raise the front of the car using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Ensure that the vehicle is stable before proceeding.
- Remove the Struts: To access the strut tops, you’ll need to remove the suspension struts from the vehicle. This typically involves loosening the bolts that secure the strut to the control arm and the upper mounting points.
- Remove the Old Strut Tops: Once the strut is removed, you can unbolt or unclip the old strut tops. They may be held in place by bolts or clips, depending on the design.
- Install the New Strut Tops: Position the new strut tops on the struts and secure them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re installing adjustable strut tops, make sure to adjust them to your desired settings before fully tightening them.
- Reinstall the Struts: Place the strut back into position and secure it to the control arm and upper mounting points. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Perform an Alignment: After installing the new strut tops, it’s essential to get a professional alignment. This ensures that your vehicle’s suspension geometry is correct, improving handling and tire wear.
Conclusion
Upgrading the strut tops on your VE Commodore is an excellent way to enhance its handling, steering response, ride quality, and overall performance. Whether you're looking for sharper cornering, increased stability, or better durability, strut top upgrades provide a significant improvement. With a variety of options available, including polyurethane, performance rubber, and adjustable strut tops, you can choose the right upgrade that fits your driving needs and style. The investment in upgrading your strut tops is well worth it, especially if you're looking to get the most out of your VE Commodore’s suspension system, whether you're on the road or the track. Report this page