Melwood513 ' s '03 GTZ Revival

[melwood513]

A lot of you have asked me to post pictures of my GTZ and her progress since the accident. Well here it goes...

April 2nd (probably one of the worst days of my life)...

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/01/yvyzaqyh.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/01/8uza9y2e.jpg

My trunk kit blew apart, and my rear crossmember actually snapped and sway bar bent to shit behind the wheel on the driver side which i think is what saved the frame.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/01/6ytyneve.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/01/sahejama.jpg

Finally after a long battle with the insurance company I have her picked up on May 2nd and taken to the body shop

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/01/atave6es.jpg

They quickly start cutting her up

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/01/2yqehu5y.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/01/nuvyje4y.jpg

After about 3 weeks they start putting her back together

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/01/ereja5ub.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/01/9ygy5uda.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/01/5u4ugady.jpg

Of course I wasn't gonna let her go into the shop and not come out without a few upgrades

Vogtland coils to give her a 1- 2" drop (recommended by TGC members)
KYB Excel G's all around
New headlights in clear and black
N1 muffler with 4" slant tip
HPS cold air intake
Set of Helo 18" BLACK rims
Black carpet kit
2 Fosgate 3001 NIB amps
Set of 6.5 fosgate components with tweeters
All new wiring and components for system (all fosgate)
Kenwood KDC X598 head unit
GT 1 farad digital power cap
Red spark plug wires and iridium NGK plugs
All new LED's for both interior (-the dash) and exterior.
OEM front bumper (couldn't afford the JDM this round)

Let me know what u think so far of my upgrade choices and which way you would have gone with it....

[2002BlackDragon]

You got pics of everything on the car now?

Sent from my Z796C using Tapatalk

[melwood513]

The last pic I posted was the last time I was there. Supposed to be done early next week. I'll update the post next time I see her.


Here are a couple of before pics...

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/02/ymemy2ah.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/02/ta8u6esu.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/02/a7a3a2ah.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/02/8e7u5yha.jpg

I didn't get any pics of the trunk kit complete before I got plowed by a camry.. :(

Here is SOME Of the new equipment..

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/02/aqy6yra4.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/02/se2a7ane.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/02/2aneva3u.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/02/8a7e2yge.jpg

I'm trying to get the trunk kit ready before she's done over there, I'll be gutting her as soon as she gets here to do the interior and the trunk.

[melwood513]

It is starting to look a lot like Christmas in my garage lol.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/02/y6upy6u8.jpg

Minus the busted up speaker boxes in the front...

[melwood513]

I just realized after reading through this forum and thousands of post that this stay not have been the best place to post this thread. It appears that I am waaaaay out of my league here. LOL! Sorry about that...

[2002BlackDragon]

What do you mean? Your rebuild its looking great.

Sent from my Z796C using Tapatalk

[G-spot]

Most would of just total the car with the damage you sustained. You just got up and repaired it as if nothing ever happened let alone start a build thread. If that's considered out of your league then I don't know what is. You're doing fine.

[2002BlackDragon]

Yeah man... and you seem like you have some pretty sold plans for it too. I'm interested to see how this turns out.

Sent from my Z796C using Tapatalk

[wetamup2k3g]

You're fine Mel, keep the progress coming! I love to see the dedication to the platform, makes me wanna keep moving forward with mines.

[melwood513]

You guys make it sound like it was an easy decision..... Don't get me wrong I lost sleep trying to decide where u wanted to go with this.... I had at least 15 different people come look at it, all experience and/or certified mechanics and honestly a couple of them did tell me to let it go. But the majority of them, said she was straight and although probably not the best financial decision, with only 70,000 miles and as well maintained as she was I wasn't ready to throw her away.

[2002BlackDragon]

Oh trust me man... we understand. Mine was everything to me. Still hurts today that I let it go and it was 3 hrs ago. Wish I never did. Keep us posted on updates! Can't wait to see it come together

Sent from my Z796C using Tapatalk

[melwood513]

Thanks BlackDragon and You should do that Wetamup... if the outcome would make you happy.. then proceed my friend, proceed.... and G-Spot, I know I'm in over my head...lmao!! Putting more money into a car than what it's worth..... thanks guys!

[Black8GV6]

Nice job Mel, I can't wait to see the car when it has all the new goodies

[Blue3000GTguy]

Thanks for posting this. It makes me feel a LOT better about mine.
Hopefully mine can be saved. I'll know more after tomorrow.

[melwood513]

You have their estimate right ? The actual break down of the repairs from their shop.. I would start reaching out to shops who do free mobile estimates and get em out there. They will always try to beat the estimate you have, it could give you a little leverage with the insurance company if you get a few to come in way under by showing a possible wrongful TL, which is irreversible, but more importantly will give you a better idea of what you're looking at and help you make the final decision on buying her back or just letting her go. You can always start stripping your parts off of her now.. I know it sucks but it's a good thing to be prepared for the worst.

[melwood513]

Me too! Thanks!

[melwood513]

Well. Just got back from the shop... it's painted. Will go back together next week I guess

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/03/e4yje5up.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/03/yqe8enur.jpg

[melwood513]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/03/2e9umaha.jpghttp://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/03/a4evu2ap.jpg

Thinking ill head down there with some dynamat this week while that's nice and open... save me some time and effort when she comes home

[Black8GV6]

are you getting different taillights? I think some tinted oem tails would match the car nice



EDIT:



http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/01/ereja5ub.jpg


Are they going to get the door trim for the GTZ?

[melwood513]

actually, I still have my OEM taillights and sent them with her to the shop, they're going to tint them for me, ;). And yeah I tripped when I saw that door to go but they did get the GTZ moldings for it, lol

[melwood513]

I need some input please.. I'm trying to get my Amps mounted and my boxes done before car comes home, my dilemma is I WANT SOME TRUNK SPACE, I've gone over this several times and what seems to be killing me is the trunk hinge swing clearance.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/05/uzadypa7.jpg
Ideally I would like to keep 12's behind taillights, Amps mounted to back wall ( don't laugh at my roughs, lol!)
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/05/y2ubyzyp.jpg

But I'm afraid if I can't get my Vb to 1.2 I'm going to have to do something like this.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/05/dusavy2e.jpg

Any ideas? I searched the threads and aside from glassing, which is impossible without car here, I don't see anything.

[wetamup2k3g]

I think your last sketch might work the best, leaves you more room to put bigger items in, plus I find I get more output to the cabin when I fire to the rear (though I run a ported box). I have a 2.0 cubic ft box in that same space between the wheel wells and I can shift it left or right about five or so inches and still be good, so I think you can fit two 1.2's back there. Hope this helps, the rebuild is looking amazing!

[melwood513]

Thanks! I will get started on it today...

[melwood513]

Hey wetamup did u ever try that deadskin recommendation? If so how did it work for u?

[melwood513]

I just got back from the body shop with some concerning news let me ask you guys if they put a rear and underneath my car without ABS break package then it is not a GTZ rear end .....correct????

[oakrdrs187]

99% sure its not. Most if not all GTZ cars had ABS. But they could swap in your knuckles and sway bar to make it right.

Sent From My Rooted Galaxy Note 2 using Tapatalk

[melwood513]

I was thinking the same thing except the knuckle is one of the things that snapped... he walked me over said "here's ur old one" I flat asked if he got a GTZ rear end, he said yes....
So I just need to watch for the aluminum knuckles and the thicker swaybar.... correct? I thought it was odd that of all the estimates I got this place was the only one who located a local GTZ rear end....
Being a female I have found I don't get taken too seriously when it comes to this type of shit.....

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/26/te5e8ady.jpg

[oakrdrs187]

Visually you can't spot the thickness of the sway bars. The knuckle isn't aluminum its the same thing but its got a hole for the abs sensor. I cant tell that is not a GTZ rear subframe because there's a drum sitting on the floor. GTZs all came with the rear disc brakes. I wouldn't give them a hard time because it really doesn't matter, as long as they use your sway bar and knuckles to bolt up the disc brake assembly you'll be ok. Also your disc brakes will bolt into the drum knuckle but when it comes to putting the abs sensor they won't have a spot for it.

Sent From My Rooted Galaxy Note 2 using Tapatalk

[melwood513]

Thank you so much... i appreciate the input. I plan on picking up an eibach kit anyways so I guess I'm good... he said he was waiting on the pieces to show up with the hole for the ABS, but your confirmation holds much more weight ....

[oakrdrs187]

I like to think I know these cars well, I don't know the most out of anyone on these boards but I now these cars better than I know myself at times. So I can confidently confirm that only knuckles and re-use of the sway bar is needed to turn that rear subframe into a GTZ. I hope your car comes along well and good luck with your build. I PM'd check your inbox.

Sent From My Rooted Galaxy Note 2 using Tapatalk

[melwood513]

Thanks! So far so good, body work looks amazing, this is the only hiccup so far. I can't wait to get her home, I have a lot of work to do once she gets here. To include attempting the tune up on my own, lol. I hear it's a pain in the ass since the top end has to come down to get to the rear plugs. Guess I'll find out soon enough... The rest should be fun, carpet kit, new stereo system, cold air, interior remodel... hopefully it cools down a little soon. 115 is kinda rough to work in!

[melwood513]

Ok, she's home.... here is how she sits so far... http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/03/6ec3b48e13a3972341d971c743994a6b.jpg

[melwood513]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/03/818e7b859c65385e8f3334754135a4a1.jpg

The tails will be tinted this week and new stereo system put in. I will keep u all posted.... just wanted to say.... SHE'S ALMOST DONE!! YAAAAY!!

[juicejax]

Looks good...love seeing Gs murdered out

[wetamup2k3g]

Looking good Mel, nice and shiny!

[melwood513]

Thanks guys... working on speaker boxes now... damn it's hot out here...lol

[2002BlackDragon]

Looks great!

Sent from my Z796C using Tapatalk

[Silvertune]

Finally a car that doesn't look like total shit. I like the ruby tails on the black, way better than night shaded IMO.

[8thLS6]

Looking good, sits nice

[melwood513]

Well, got her home and gutted the interior to install the new carpet kit, run new wiring and swap out the stock infinity speakers and head unit. What a project this turned out to be! Coming together, but alot of work still left to do!
Before
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/19/79e0ceb664f2c867d15a64f4c75aa438.jpg
During, lol!
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/19/8e246b4ef9f187836999f33ea696282a.jpg
After! Happy with carpet kit even though wasn't exactly a "Direct fit" as described.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/19/2e563ce6cedded8da2c6ba9a4d53fb79.jpg
happy with how the center console came out as well. It looks much better inside the car then it did out, i was worried for a minute!
Before

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/19/cd533d2315472fecaf375e760bd44b61.jpg
After
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/19/a1be566db3522db6512e07067056aa26.jpg

[melwood513]

The tweets were a pain in the ass and alot of plastic was shaved, but they r in and behind the stock pods. The 6.5" were slightly small and i had to use rings, forgot to take pic before replacing panels.[emoji19]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/19/c1285646450b674961c1ac7d0f571afd.jpg

Added a few more LEDs, the door pockets/ floorboards/ underbody are all on wireless remote giving me just enough light as i walk up and get in. It's nice not haveing the bright ass led dome lighting up when doors open displaying all of my interior goodies for the world around me to see..The less ppl know what's in it the lower my chances are it will get stolen around here! Finally, a light in my glove box too, u think mitsubishi would have had that covered...

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/19/82cfa7edac6d2ddd42e1ca3065578238.jpg

[melwood513]

The kenwood was fairly easy to install, I integrated with the tips I picked up here from the members and it worked out perfectly, (thanks to everyone for the help with that) the infinity amp is still powering all mids and the fosgate in the trunk handles the rest!
Thinking about just replacing the infinity 6 disc with a dvd player to fill the gap once this useless equipment is removed. Gonna look into headrest monitors.. any opinions or reviews appreciated

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/19/659238b70235e75d77e51423cac85015.jpg

[oakrdrs187]

Good work.


I have infinity components in front, the tweeters are behind the pod as well but I didn't have to cut anything. I see you are using the rings that get used to do flush mounts (cut a round hole and mount the rear ring from behind to screw in to the front one). I think if you had separated the tweeter from the the rings you wouldn't have had to trim anything. To be completely honest the way mine mount is using the strength of the magnet to stick to the metal bracket, sits just right and doesn't move. Nonetheless it looks great, especially the carpet.

[melwood513]

Thanks Vic! Not bad for a girl huh ;)
I did try without the rings but ended up going this route after some frustration, lol. i wasnt sure which way to go with it, now wishing I would have hit u up and asked before I did it, lol, it worked out though. I'm still working on the tune up today, ALOT harder than anticipated, once I finish I will post under hood pics.

[oakrdrs187]

Yea! 'Very' "not bad" for a girl. I applaud you, looking at your Kenwood, its missing the trim, do you have it?

I know it won't stay.

Look at my write up, it's my way of getting it to stick:

https://www.thegalantcenter.org/showthread.php?t=49719

[melwood513]

LOL, exactly, figured I'd mess with it when I button everything else up. Your awesome Vic, Thanks!

[coconut]

All I have to saw is WOW!! Very nice come back. Glad you didnt give up on the car. Looks awsome.

[juicejax]

Real smooth

[8thLS6]

Added a few more LEDs, the door pockets/ floorboards/ underbody are all on wireless remote giving me just enough light as i walk up and get in. It's nice not haveing the bright ass led dome lighting up when doors open displaying all of my interior goodies for the world around me to see..The less ppl know what's in it the lower my chances are it will get stolen around here!

1st, I really like the door pockets and was wondering how they would look illuminated. 2nd, my thoughts exactly on concerns of privacy when I*switched to*led bulbs for my dome and map lights.

Funny thing is I would like slightly brighter leds but not at the cost of added attention lol.

Some months back I bought some some cob led strips as accent lighting for my floor, and anticipating them to be kinda dim I had it wired so they stayed on with the headlights. Boy was I wrong lol. Even aimed at the floor under the dash, you could make out my face in the dark. Never even made it out the driveway that night before I unhooked them, and uninstalled next day lol.

[RedGalant2k1]

Just buy a few nice Tablets instead of headrest monitors, safer, removable, and you can hook them up wifi or bluetooth!

[keith6110]

Just came across this thread, she's beautiful!!!

I had a the same thing happen to my old G. Ambulance hit my car on a snowy day and I had to replace the quarter as well.

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z288/keith6110/galant%20smashed/galantindriveway6.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z288/keith6110/galant%20smashed/galantjoinedbackshot.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z288/keith6110/galant%20smashed/100_1779.jpg

[melwood513]

That turned out perfect, she looks good.

[melwood513]

Thanks juice, still not as nice as urs..lol

[melwood513]

Real smooth



Just buy a few nice Tablets instead of headrest monitors, safer, removable, and you can hook them up wifi or bluetooth!

I'm digging the tablet idea...

[melwood513]

So, I got one for u guys. I had an issue with the rear drivers side fender lip sitting on the tire. The body shop actually delivered car this way. I drove it 1/2 a block and knew something was seriously wrong. So they took the car back and i picked it up a week later and the issue seemed to be resolved, but the tire clearance to the outer edge of the fender was still noticeably different from the passenger side. Drivers side u cannot run your hand along top of tire but passenger u can.
Now that I've been driving it for a minute, the clearance is has changed and is almost completely gone again on the drivers side, I'll be taking her back to the shop but do you guys have any idea what could possibly be going on? http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/24/cd2a74327049d5df1c86679367b4291d.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/24/95f7a5d03c92da63423eeea6a9533624.jpg

[Black8GV6]

maybe where the suspension pieces connect to the car, during the accident they might have been pushed a few millimeters out of place

[Galantman03]

you got hit on one side and they replaced the whole rear subframe right? Did they replace both rear knuckles or just one? If they replaced just the damaged one, I could see that worn out suspension bushings could cause this, one side being used more that the other side, or more miles at least. Thats what I'm going with, worn out bushings.

[melwood513]

They replaced the entire rear crossmember with all components and actually had to order a set of rear knuckles because the ones that came on the replacement crossmember did not have the abs holes in them. In other words it did not come off a gtz I guess. Actually grinder the fender down a little today on the inner lip and it is STILL rubbing when I hit a bump.

[melwood513]

1st, I really like the door pockets and was wondering how they would look illuminated. 2nd, my thoughts exactly on concerns of privacy when I*switched to*led bulbs for my dome and map lights.

Funny thing is I would like slightly brighter leds but not at the cost of added attention lol.

Some months back I bought some some cob led strips as accent lighting for my floor, and anticipating them to be kinda dim I had it wired so they stayed on with the headlights. Boy was I wrong lol. Even aimed at the floor under the dash, you could make out my face in the dark. Never even made it out the driveway that night before I unhooked them, and uninstalled next day lol.
I went with the weatherproof flexible led strips and mounted them up under the dash facing down and way under the front seats so just the floorboards are illuminated. I ran them to a fused distribution block thats mounted under my center console that's powered straight off my battery so I can switch them on and off any time I want and the nice thing about the LEDs vs the neons I took out is the 3 amp draw is so low I can leave them on overnight if I wish without killing my battery.

[melwood513]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/26/bd479ad4ac8caf82b8591b1fd73ca746.jpg

I have two more switches and a remote bass knob I still need to mount somewhere. Just not sure where yet.

[melwood513]

The tune up sucked... i tried the clamshell technique to try and save some time and it was still tedious. I snapped two bolts in the manifold, one for the throttle cable adjustment/ guide and the other just above the injection rail. I will contend with those later.

after intake installation but before tune up
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/26/4cc8889aa7a6035d0cd3926bc071f515.jpg

during tune up
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/26/93c787c413def626e0ac4e7bb9c0b7bd.jpg

Daughter helping mommy work on car (neighbors were watchin and trippin, lol)
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/26/526d4837e3dfbda22c3f2ab148c0c3b2.jpg

After tune up
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/26/ce504a65bad0937939eac312a61372f5.jpg

[8thLS6]

Nice! I'm sure it runs as good as it looks. Also on your issue with the ride height in the rear, don't know if it applies to our cars but what about preload? http://teinusa-blog.com/applying-suspension-preload/

I can't say for certain, as my last car and my G were lowered with the help of a friend who is more into fitment than I am. So he has more experience at being low lol

[Black8GV6]

Good job Mel, impressed seeing a girl doing some work on her car.

[melwood513]

Good job Mel, impressed seeing a girl doing some work on her car.
Awwwe, Thanks Black8GV6!
Honestly, it kicked my ass and my hands are tore up, but I prefer to do most of the work myself. Timing belt and body work are just about the only things I'm not comfortable messing with.
And the 5 speed swap that will eventually take place will have to be hired out as well I'm sure ;).

[melwood513]

Nice! I'm sure it runs as good as it looks. Also on your issue with the ride height in the rear, don't know if it applies to our cars but what about preload? http://teinusa-blog.com/applying-suspension-preload/

I can't say for certain, as my last car and my G were lowered with the help of a friend who is more into fitment than I am. So he has more experience at being low lol
I just read the article and you may be on to something. I know they lifted her up and put it together and then put her back on the ground.i watched them do it again today. I'm going to give this a shot tomorrow and see if it works, thanks for the input!

[coconut]

To bad you didn't live in Cali, would of done the swap for free..

[8thLS6]

No prob, hope it helps

[melwood513]

To bad you didn't live in Cali, would of done the swap for free..
Careful Coconut, I'm actually from Cali and all my fam lives there so I'm back and forth quite a bit, I just might take u up on that offer one day , lol ;) sounds like fun....

[coconut]

Careful Coconut, I'm actually from Cali and all my fam lives there so I'm back and forth quite a bit, I just might take u up on that offer one day , lol ;) sounds like fun....

Where abouts in Cali ?
Bring all parts needed
and ill handle the rest. Let me know! :-)

[melwood513]

I will need to get a thorough list together for the swap and then get the parts. So it will be a minute for sure. Was planning on waiting for the tranny to drop then replace with manual, but I'm getting anxious...lol

[melwood513]

Where abouts in Cali ?
Bring all parts needed
and ill handle the rest. Let me know! :-)
SoCal. Riverside/ Norco

[coconut]

Your location is about half hour forty five minutes max.

[melwood513]

Your location is about half hour forty five minutes max.
This is good news :) !
I will do some research and start gathering it all up. Probably a few months time. Thank you!

[coconut]

Right on! If you need any help getting the parts let me know also. Have some local j/y that would probably have most of what you need. I would have no problem going and taking them out for ya. Let me know !!! Your welcome

[6G72gearhead]

Looking at the issue's you've been having with the rear it looks like somethings moving, especially if you say the gap changes. Also you may need to have the fenders rolled. Back to the change in gap on the suspension, make sure when you measure it you are looking at it with the car on flat ground, if the suspension is articulated at all you will have one wheel in droop, and one wheel compressed.

Also you may hear some people talk about setting the suspension so that the suspension doesn't compress when the car is set back on the ground, I will tell you this is a very dangerous practice as the suspension needs the down travel to negotiate bumpy roads effectively. I bring this up because that tien link, if I remember correctly, tells you to do exactly that to make up for the very small amount of travel in most tien dampers.

[melwood513]

Looking at the issue's you've been having with the rear it looks like somethings moving, especially if you say the gap changes. Also you may need to have the fenders rolled. Back to the change in gap on the suspension, make sure when you measure it you are looking at it with the car on flat ground, if the suspension is articulated at all you will have one wheel in droop, and one wheel compressed.

Also you may hear some people talk about setting the suspension so that the suspension doesn't compress when the car is set back on the ground, I will tell you this is a very dangerous practice as the suspension needs the down travel to negotiate bumpy roads effectively. I bring this up because that tien link, if I remember correctly, tells you to do exactly that to make up for the very small amount of travel in most tien dampers.
I had reviewed the Tein link and considered giving it a shot but I'm right there with you, why did it go back to the way it was before the shop "fixed" it if something didn't move that was holding it in place. And even after they "fixed" it the gaps were very different. Right now this is my biggest concern and I need to get this worked out it will be going back to the shop next week but I don't trust that they are being forthcoming with what actually took place under there. I have already questioned the non GTZ rear end and I got more answers here than from the guy doing the work (that's usually the case though).
Can you tell me what I should be looking for and what could possibly have moved. I just want to make sure I have a better idea of what's going on before I trust them to "fix" it again.
It's hard to tell in the picture but it is noticeably leaning again.
Any input is greatly appreciated and I'm glad that you caught this before I take it back on Monday. Thank you very much for taking the time to respond as this has put a little bit of a damper on the rebuild and I'm becoming quickly discouraged.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/05/bb751b538a9159de144d8ae71c12e893.jpg

[6G72gearhead]

Don't get discouraged, there is a fix its just a matter of finding it. If the whole subframe was replaced there could be a number of issues to result from that, however look for the easy stuff first. Is the rear upright/knuckle bent? Is there a control arm bent? How are the suspension bushings? Look for anything that might be out of center or loose. It might pay off to put the back end up on jackstands and inspect it all thoroughly, make sure there isn't any play anywhere. Compare the two sides to see if anything is obviously deformed in comparison to the opposite component.

[melwood513]

Long time no talk guys! And thanks gearhead, I hope ur right. Let me give u a brief rundown of what's been going on while I've been away.
The car went back to the shop. Not absolutely sure of what the body shop did other than grind my fender down so it would not cut into the tire. But since the first delivery of the vehicle, it has been back in shop several times. The gap difference on each side in those rear fenders is the one thing that has never changed. The rubbing noises and squeaks and hums seemed to just move around whenever it came out of shop.
I took off to Cali in January, didn't make it too far And I had a blow out. (this is right after I had shop inspect And tell me it was safe for that long haul). Those tires were fairly new, all four same time and rears were smooth, front tread is good. Went to discount, found out all directionals rotating wrong way, I actually stopped driving the car back in February cuz I took a road trip north and it rained and snowed. I was all over the road hydroplaning, then snow was getting jammed up in Wells and I had to keep getting out to remove it so the wheels could roll and I wasnt dragging the rear up the hill till it slid backwards packed with ice. I was stuck in hotel till storm passed cuz chains would not fit on tires. Finding out later it was cuz of my directionals... Oh man.
, so I was concerned And pissed when I saw this. http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/15/00d5f71909444d0e2866a07eb96c4606.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/15/5ae30ca6bb95d2ce017ef9a8f04260c7.jpg
Come to find out, every time I took car in they were swapping tires around because they were getting chewed by the drivers rear. both rears were trashed and one up front has damage and I'll need to replace it soon... PISSED!
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/15/83bd85fdeb8fc52f2cf866655aa94644.jpg

I've just recently returned to AZ and finally jacked it up last night because Now it sounds like my wheel bearings have gone out. I was appalled. I won't lie, I CRIED.... This shop has destroyed my car, they must have salvaged this rear end from the bottom of the Atlantic first off and second, it looks nothing like my old one and all the bushings are shot, the bike assemblies are hanging up on both sides, one of my brand new rims is destroyed on the backside, lip grinded down!
I do see obvious differences in the knuckles and I found two different bumpstops as well. Anyways, here is what I saw. So embarrassing. First pic, my rear end after accident but on passenger side.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/15/0eb2f462c9d0b717ef7456a0080fcecd.jpg

After replaced with salvaged crap, same side little closer up.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/15/bbf50229f35d2c367dddac01983e8de7.jpg
Bump stop passenger
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/15/b62516972f01d58cbc4989ef3bda5ace.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/15/af340a7e94d88b48511aa76888b5159b.jpg

Problem side
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/15/ae25c74be733e9e6b51b03254a8ac099.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/15/3f6dfb187cabec11f046c72d9d66266f.jpg
Bumpstop
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/15/beb0704cca0f3446de19f593eb0d3a80.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/15/8fcc469a8b61c8a2d35094dbe67f9aed.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/15/8adbef66c0328a6f3f7d0eb9fc011289.jpg

I don't want to go too crazy if I haven't already here, lol. I have to meet with shop owner this week, only told him my abs and tcl lights have been intermittently coming on and that the hum going on since he first delivered the car is deafening now. I'm not sure how to approach this yet, obviously I don't trust them.
Any way to tell where this rear assembly came from?



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[melwood513]

I have video of the wheels free spinning and u can clearly hear the clinking of the brake cover hang up, BOTH SIDES! Wheel bearing for sure drivers and noise coming from passenger
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/15/c91e153d182119d5791b5efa8e7660e5.jpg
AZ dmv made me strip front windows to get my tags...
I can't catch a break when it comes to the car lately ..... https://vimeo.com/133554821
Both sides sound similar. Note rim that is completely chewed up in a pattern.
In the beginning of this mess, shop b
Tried to blame my new shocks and springs. Lol. I want whatever this is out from under my car asap before something else goes out, or wears prematurely or gets grinded off to make room for some defective part... SMH



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[oakrdrs187]

Can't really tell much from the pictures except the upper bushing on the problem side knuckle is bad. That can cause un-even tire wear. From the video all I can hear is the sound of the dust cover scrapping the rotor. The noise right at the end could be the bad wheel bearing or the worn bushings on that side.

[coconut]

My thoughts exact. Time for some energy or prothane bushing upgrades and that would take care of the worn bushings.

[melwood513]

I'll get them ordered. Thanks guys for checking it out

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[melwood513]

My thoughts exact. Time for some energy or prothane bushing upgrades and that would take care of the worn bushings.
Still need to get these ordered. I've gone to do it a couple times and it's rather confusing, do they not have a complete set for the GTZ? I thought this would be an easier task....lol. I must be missing something...

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[melwood513]

After replacing the hub assemblies and having dust cover issue corrected, the car drives nicely again and there are no more strange noises. Not sure what the shop did exactly to correct the one side or I would share. So once again, YOU GUYS WERE RIGHT...and it helped me call the shop out on some of their half assed work. Thank you all very much. I still need to replace the bushings but that should be it suspension wise. :)

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[coconut]

Still need to get these ordered. I've gone to do it a couple times and it's rather confusing, do they not have a complete set for the GTZ? I thought this would be an easier task....lol. I must be missing something...

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Should be the same kit . Ill see if I can find the number I used. Warning it wil be a little stiffer ride.

[melwood513]

Should be the same kit . Ill see if I can find the number I used. Warning it wil be a little stiffer ride.
Awesome, I appreciate it, and I'm OK with that, especially if it will make everything else last longer.

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[coconut]

Have the invoice some wheres with the number. Will look for it tomorrow.

[melwood513]

Have the invoice some wheres with the number. Will look for it tomorrow.
No hurry, :)

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[oakrdrs187]

After replacing the hub assemblies and having dust cover issue corrected, the car drives nicely again and there are no more strange noises. Not sure what the shop did exactly to correct the one side or I would share. So once again, YOU GUYS WERE RIGHT...and it helped me call the shop out on some of their half assed work. Thank you all very much. I still need to replace the bushings but that should be it suspension wise. :)

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What were we correct on....again?

[coconut]

I think it was the bad rear hub and bearings.

[melwood513]

What were we correct on....again?
Well, I was pretty frustrated and convinced something was seriously wrong, you had to drive it, to hear it, to feel it..besides the fact I blew through two tires...but couldn't present my argument to the body shop until I did what Gearhead recommended and get under it myself and look for obvious differences. It was not as easy underneath but after going through all photos I took side by side, I did notice the driver side upper control arm rear bolt was positioned slightly different and almost angling the control arm a bit. That's the side I was hit on. So once I went in and pointed that out along with the bad bushings, and argued the point that a misaligned knuckle from a bent arm could cause hub bearing failure, they covered everything but the bushings and that's because I told them I wanted to upgrade. Its quiet again and rides much better then it did.

So you were all right, dust cover, bushings, bad wheel bearing, bent or misaligned parts.....





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[coconut]

Have those part numbers for the kits. Remember this will stiffen the suspension up.
Its made by prothane 13-2002 BL. This is a kit. But you will also need 3 kits of 88-309-BL for the rear knuckles..
I heard that energy suspension bushing are softer and will give you a better ride.. Sorry I dont have those part numbers.

[oakrdrs187]

I ate up 2 tires because of these same problems. As well as worn lower control arms.

[melwood513]

Have those part numbers for the kits. Remember this will stiffen the suspension up.
Its made by prothane 13-2002 BL. This is a kit. But you will also need 3 kits of 88-309-BL for the rear knuckles..
I heard that energy suspension bushing are softer and will give you a better ride.. Sorry I dont have those part numbers.
Thank you so much!

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[coconut]

No problem

[melwood513]

I still have some questions that I could never find definitive answers for. I know the GTZ suspension vs other models has been discussed to death, but there are a few things that I can't seem to confirm. Since the assembly they put in came with drums, doesn't that mean it is off of a 4 cyl model? If so, this used assembly is broken in and tuned for a different set up right? The weight of my GTZ on it and how it sits will be very different right? Do the rears of 4's and 6's bolt up in the same exact location?
Here's what's going on, I've had several issues, all of which are pretty much blamed on my coils and now my rims even. ABS/TCL intermittently coming on, can't stand my tires up straight cuz of "how low" I took car, which wasn't specified because they didn't take measurements they were supposed to before and after, and as u see its not that low, and u guys know the rest.
I provided body shop with the kybs and Vogtlands spec'd for the GTZ. My Helo rims (which I HATE, bad call, they r ugly on car, lol) are 18 x 8.0" , before accident I had 7.5's but could only get 8's in these and when shop heard they jumped on that too telling me my rims are too wide. Between the crappy ride compared to my original and the weird difference in my wheel well gaps now after lowering and shop repair I just want to do whatever I need to to get my GTZ back.
After looking online at parts to order so I could compare part numbers I see I may run into other issues if unaware of exactly which vehicle my assembly came off of. I see the breakdown of parts specifies clearly between "gtz and non gtz" and such. I researched it and it seems the rear trailing arm on drivers side is different part then rest of V6 4 wheel disc models. Where does this leave me if I'm needing to order parts? Fitment issues? The latest turn of events is the body shop manager telling me that I have no drivers rear ABS when I let him know abs light came on again... WTF? I said aren't they all abs and he said " not on that side". This whole thing is getting old and I'm sorry to bother u all with it, but confused for sure now. If this rear is going to cause nothing but problems I'll fight them to take it out if I have to.


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[melwood513]

I still have some questions that I could never find definitive answers for. I know the GTZ suspension vs other models has been discussed to death, but there are a few things that I can't seem to confirm. Since the assembly they put in came with drums, doesn't that mean it is off of a 4 cyl model? If so, this used assembly is broken in and tuned for a different set up right? The weight of my GTZ on it and how it sits will be very different right? Do the rears of 4's and 6's bolt up in the same exact location?
Here's what's going on, I've had several issues, all of which are pretty much blamed on my coils and now my rims even. ABS/TCL intermittently coming on, can't stand my tires up straight cuz of "how low" I took car, which wasn't specified because they didn't take measurements they were supposed to before and after, and as u see its not that low, and u guys know the rest.
I provided body shop with the kybs and Vogtlands spec'd for the GTZ. My Helo rims (which I HATE, bad call, they r ugly on car, lol) are 18 x 8.0" , before accident I had 7.5's but could only get 8's in these and when shop heard they jumped on that too telling me my rims are too wide. Between the crappy ride compared to my original and the weird difference in my wheel well gaps now after lowering and shop repair I just want to do whatever I need to to get my GTZ back.
After looking online at parts to order so I could compare part numbers I see I may run into other issues if unaware of exactly which vehicle my assembly came off of. I see the breakdown of parts specifies clearly between "gtz and non gtz" and such. I researched it and it seems the rear trailing arm on drivers side is different part then rest of V6 4 wheel disc models. Where does this leave me if I'm needing to order parts? Fitment issues? The latest turn of events is the body shop manager telling me that I have no drivers rear ABS when I let him know abs light came on again... WTF? I said aren't they all abs and he said " not on that side". This whole thing is getting old and I'm sorry to bother u all with it, but confused for sure now. If this rear is going to cause nothing but problems I'll fight them to take it out if I have to.


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http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/30/39c8219518340bdd6a19f845d868f9aa.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/30/efc489742f98aa446a4310556498000e.jpg

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[oakrdrs187]

The rear subframe assembly will be fine on your car, what makes the difference is the shocks and springs, and the rear sway bar thickness.


So for shocks and springs you are fine. As long as the shop used the original sway bar its still technically within GTZ spec. So go ahead and buy your polyurethane bushings for your cars specification.

As far as the wheels standing up straight, you need to get camber correction kits and get aligned again (which you'll probably need anyway after the suspension bushings are redone because everything will be broken loose and stiffer bushings are going in) these cars are notorious for negative camber, they hit negative 1 to negative1.5 on stock suspension, after a drop it's not uncommon to go as far as negative 3 (this can lead to uneven tire wear). I know I had a 4cyl with Tein S Tech springs which are 1.7 front and 1.3 rear give me negative 3.0 and negative 2.9 once. On one of mine I have the ingalls kits off ebay that can correct upto -3 to +3.

Now for that ABS and TCL light flicker, the system works with individual sensors on each wheel, each wheel bearing has a sprocket/wheel with teeth, the ABS sensors count every tooth as it comes by as the wheel turns, if a tooth is missing or chipped on the said sprocket/abs wheel the ABS module will see this and trigger the light every time a tooth is not counted, also if the sensors are broken, damaged or its wires are exposed and somehow shorting on metal or to each other this will also cause intermittent light flicker, this is all very possible for you since that rear end was swapped out and disc brakes were put in place of drums, all this moving parts and swapping pieces makes it very possible for any component I just mentioned to have gotten damaged. It could have been the collision itself too, you won't know until everything is inspected. You may have ABS codes that will point you in the direction of which wheel is faulting out, but first inspect everything and make sure the sensor tips are clean and free of debris, they are magnets and will hold metal shavings.

[melwood513]

The rear subframe assembly will be fine on your car, what makes the difference is the shocks and springs, and the rear sway bar thickness.


So for shocks and springs you are fine. As long as the shop used the original sway bar its still technically within GTZ spec. So go ahead and buy your polyurethane bushings for your cars specification.

As far as the wheels standing up straight, you need to get camber correction kits and get aligned again (which you'll probably need anyway after the suspension bushings are redone because everything will be broken loose and stiffer bushings are going in) these cars are notorious for negative camber, they hit negative 1 to negative1.5 on stock suspension, after a drop it's not uncommon to go as far as negative 3 (this can lead to uneven tire wear). I know I had a 4cyl with Tein S Tech springs which are 1.7 front and 1.3 rear give me negative 3.0 and negative 2.9 once. On one of mine I have the ingalls kits off ebay that can correct upto -3 to +3.

Now for that ABS and TCL light flicker, the system works with individual sensors on each wheel, each wheel bearing has a sprocket/wheel with teeth, the ABS sensors count every tooth as it comes by as the wheel turns, if a tooth is missing or chipped on the said sprocket/abs wheel the ABS module will see this and trigger the light every time a tooth is not counted, also if the sensors are broken, damaged or its wires are exposed and somehow shorting on metal or to each other this will also cause intermittent light flicker, this is all very possible for you since that rear end was swapped out and disc brakes were put in place of drums, all this moving parts and swapping pieces makes it very possible for any component I just mentioned to have gotten damaged. It could have been the collision itself too, you won't know until everything is inspected. You may have ABS codes that will point you in the direction of which wheel is faulting out, but first inspect everything and make sure the sensor tips are clean and free of debris, they are magnets and will hold metal shavings.
Thanks for your time Vic, I will also order the camber kit. You guys sure do make my life alot easier. Once the car is 100% I'll be stopping through to see you on my next trip to Cali to drop those parts we discussed a while back, just not sure when that will be, but I'll let you know. [emoji16]

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[oakrdrs187]

Sounds like a plan!

[RedGalant2k1]

I just want to say there is no possibility of the wheels on our cars causing an ABS malfunction. You could even stagger the tires (like I have) and not have ABS issues.

[oakrdrs187]

I just want to say there is no possibility of the wheels on our cars causing an ABS malfunction. You could even stagger the tires (like I have) and not have ABS issues.

This I forgot to mention, wheel choice has absolutely nothing to do with it, and running 8 inch wide is just fine. There is a very informative thread on wheel sizing and fitment, I belive it has pictures as well including a 9.5 inch wide wheel on the knuckle. Its a sticky too IIRC.

[melwood513]

This I forgot to mention, wheel choice has absolutely nothing to do with it, and running 8 inch wide is just fine. There is a very informative thread on wheel sizing and fitment, I belive it has pictures as well including a 9.5 inch wide wheel on the knuckle. Its a sticky too IIRC.
I did see that thread while researching this, and thats why I called bullshit. Another thing I'd like to know is how you guys are getting your wheel gaps level, if you notice mine, my rears are tucked and fronts have space, not much, but urs look so much cleaner leveled like that..

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[melwood513]

I just want to say there is no possibility of the wheels on our cars causing an ABS malfunction. You could even stagger the tires (like I have) and not have ABS issues.
I didn't think so, thank u for the input and confirmation [emoji16]

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[oakrdrs187]

I did see that thread while researching this, and thats why I called bullshit. Another thing I'd like to know is how you guys are getting your wheel gaps level, if you notice mine, my rears are tucked and fronts have space, not much, but urs look so much cleaner leveled like that..

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If you notice its the cars on height adjustable coilovers.

[melwood513]

If you notice its the cars on height adjustable coilovers.
Oh...... Lol. Makes sense.

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[melwood513]

I finally did my first radiator flush yesterday, I also replaced the PCV and put in the new Mishimoto hoses. I only drove it maybe 20 miles but the temp never hit the halfway mark, which is where it usually sits while I'm driving.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/11/d8f657488d66b3927fb9e7c03c91c1c1.jpg



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[oakrdrs187]

Bay looks good!

[melwood513]

Bay looks good!
Thanks!

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[coconut]

Looks clean.

[8thLS6]

If you don't mind me asking, what rad hoses are those for, a 3g eclipse or galant? I woulda definitely went for some when I had to replace my radiator back during the winter. But yea under the hood looks good.

[melwood513]

If you don't mind me asking, what rad hoses are those for, a 3g eclipse or galant? I woulda definitely went for some when I had to replace my radiator back during the winter. But yea under the hood looks good.
Mishimoto, for 3G Eclipse, and they are on clearance right now for 47.50 and my lower had to be replaced so it made sense. I'm happy with them.

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[8thLS6]

Gotcha, thanks for sharing.

[melwood513]

I got a strange request. Can anyone please snap a pic of their inside moonroof glass, OEM preferred, so I can see the numbers and such screened on the glass. Much appreciated, THANKS!!!

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[coconut]

Did you need a glass? I can get the number when I get home this evening.

[melwood513]

Did you need a glass? I can get the number when I get home this evening.
Well.... Body shop broke mine messing with drip moldings they glued in years ago I guess. They replaced it without even telling me. I would have demanded OEM, anyways, something is not right.. Aside from I hate how it looks, the moldings aren't set right and it keeps binding.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/11/12/9c47d4152a2610177107dd31fb214535.jpg

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[coconut]

Reason I ask is because they are obsolete. I have an old Oe glass but the outside moulding is not the greatest.

[melwood513]

Reason I ask is because they are obsolete. I have an old Oe glass but the outside moulding is not the greatest.
Seems to be the problem everywhere... : /.. Oh well.... Sweat the small stuff later I guess

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[gtx]

Seems to be the problem everywhere... : /.. Oh well.... Sweat the small stuff later I guess

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That does look off. I got factory ones (the whole nine yard) for sale in good condition, just check my for sale thread if interested.

[melwood513]

That does look off. I got factory ones (the whole nine yard) for sale in good condition, just check my for sale thread if interested.
Reeeeeally.....

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[oakrdrs187]

Just junk yard it. Go to a pick and pull and try and find one that is in pretty good shape.

[melwood513]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/11/24/6d7407081f7265be425be3beaf5fd034.jpg

Anybody have a shot of their stock GTZ rear end from this angle?? Would love to see it. Preferrably passenger side but either will work.

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[xd_01]

Did someone recently remove your sway bar?

[coconut]

Looks bent.

[melwood513]

This is before it was repaired, other side was hit towards rear, slightly different angle but here is after..... http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/11/24/f6432400361f2e38a581dd8f786fea9b.jpg

Good eye ;) . I was actually told damage didn't extend past mid crossmember, they were replacing entire crossmember assembly so wasn't worried anyways... Trying to get visual of non-wrrcked stock GTZ rear to see the stance difference.

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[melwood513]

This is before it was repaired, other side was hit towards rear, slightly different angle but here is after..... http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/11/24/f6432400361f2e38a581dd8f786fea9b.jpg

Good eye ;) . I was actually told damage didn't extend past mid crossmember, they were replacing entire crossmember assembly so wasn't worried anyways... Trying to get visual of non-wrrcked stock GTZ rear to see the stance difference.

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Notice anything odd about crossmember where, I believe its, the trailing arm, connects?

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[coconut]

Looks like welding was done on the cross member where the lower control arm mounts.

[melwood513]

Looks like welding was done on the cross member where the lower control arm mounts.
THANK YOU! I was having problems with rear end moving... The gaps above wheels would change from side to side. One day sitting on drivers tire, next the passengers, they swore it was nothing and that the new springs I provided were the problem. Thankfully you guys aske me to take these pics to post to help trouble shoot the problem, because when I took it to shop they said they checked it out and it was fine, well they let me see and it had all been painted black under there! I'm still having issues with rear, once she comes back from paint I will be getting under there and going after shop. My only worry is I'm having a hard time finding Even used gtz rear ends.. Let alone local

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[coconut]

The suspension parts are all basically the same. Lots of G in my local yard.

[melwood513]

The suspension parts are all basically the same. Lots of G in my local yard.
I do need to come see you soon for sure. Lol. Thanks Coconut, I have gathered some info over the course of the last few months and would love some verification.

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[coconut]

Any time.

[Blue3000GTguy]

The suspension parts are all basically the same. Lots of G in my local yard.

GTZ rear control arms are different.

Mel, I've got a few GTZs in my local yards. Tell me what you need/want and we will make a deal.