Educate me on suspension upgrades

[Ruger2506]

As always. I'll preface my questions with this statement. I'm not a car guy, I don't enjoy wrenching on mechanical things. I just like to get into or onto toys and enjoy the ride. Along those lines my knowledge is limited to what I've learned on the internet or talking to friends. I'm not racing or competing in any way. I'm just a guy who launches from stop lights too aggressively and drives too fast on curvy hilly county roads.

So the mods for 2021 are on the 2012 Camaro 2LT and now I'm learning how the car likes them. Looking ahead to 2022 I am thinking suspension/handling upgrades are in order.

I think I am looking for a kit something like in the link below. What things am I missing and/or should I consider?

I'll also be adding an E85 kit and tune and new tires (255/45/zr19 on the stock 19"X8" rims) next spring. These tires are rated for an 8" wide rim.

https://rpmspeed.com/product_info.ph...kp468e7kojrhm6

[LCPLPunk]

Subframe bushings #1 on the list! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1


And - https://www.camaro5.com/forums/showthread.php?t=90270 - 5th gen Camaro Suspension Bible

[Avenging Orange]

The early models had a few weak links. I have pretty much replaced all my suspension bushings.and learned a lot. I'd start with cradle bushings (Solid or poly). Better shocks/struts, front radius rod bushes and fe4 upgrade to rear sway bar and lower control arms. For me this would be a minimum start. And, of course, upgraded sticky tires. The ride will still be comfortable and spirited driving will increase in 'fun mode 100%. Keep reading up in the suspension section.....and if you can find it...read the Book on camaro suspension. I think this is it. Before you modify your 5th Gen Suspension read THE BOOK - CamaroZ28.Com Message Board
https://www.camaroz28.com/forums/201...d-book-766521/

[Ruger2506]

Thanks guys. Very informative read.

[olblue75]

An possibly switch over to 4 piston Brembo’s if you upgrade/update your rear LCA’s. Brakes will also make a huge impact, what’s the intended purpose of the car? Might even wanna upgrade to 20” wheels an 6 piston front calipers if you want just a tick below ultimate performance brake wise.

[Ruger2506]

Originally Posted by olblue75

what’s the intended purpose of the car?

I'm not racing or competing in any way. I'm just a guy who launches from stop lights too aggressively and drives too fast on curvy hilly county roads. I’m just enjoying my toy as one would with a snowmobile or motorcycle or boat.

[olblue75]

Originally Posted by Ruger2506

I'm not racing or competing in any way. I'm just a guy who launches from stop lights too aggressively and drives too fast on curvy hilly county roads. I’m just enjoying my toy as one would with a snowmobile or motorcycle or boat.

So you have a big heavy car even with a V6 so proper suspension setup is key to make it enjoyable to launch or drive some twisties.
1. Solid cradle bushings preferably aluminum doesn’t cause vibe or drone
poly does wear.

2. Update rear LCAs to newer style outboard sway bar mounts .

3. Upgrade to SS brakes Deputy749(I believe that’s his user name) has a
few threads with all PN’s. Might need 20’s.

4. Try to run a square tire setup 20x9’s SS with 275 all 4 corners or 1LE F 20x10 R 20x11 285 setup.

5. Run a rear bar that’s about 4-6mm larger than the front to take
advantage of the square tire setup. Front SS rear ZL1, Front ZL1 rear
1LE, Or front 1LE rear 32mm JPSS OR 35mm Detroit Speed Hollow bar.

6. You don’t need chassis braces under the car Justice Pete will tell you that
these are extremely stiff so don’t waste your money.

7. Performance shocks 1LE or Bilstien B6’s.

8. Find a set of front Z28 LCA’s return to center an inputs will much crisper.

9. Quality lowering springs probably nothing past a inch then gets into axle
issues an differential offset bushings which will cause NVH/drone.

10. If you can find a set of rear Z28 knuckles they have better bushings
than SS or ZL1.

I’m sure I’m missing a few things but this should be a good start an it’s in no particular order. If you can score a 1pc driveshaft it helps with acceleration no clunking just a nice direct link.
That’s all I can think of right now maybe someone else can put them in a best install order for you.
I followed all the above steps from my conversations with Justice Pete he even suggested getting a Z28 style spoiler for the 2010-13’s.

[Ruger2506]

Outstanding, thank you