Handling Difference between DSE Speed Kit 3 & Hydroformed Subframe?

[kiwigt]

I intend to install DSE front and rear suspension on my 69 Camaro. Where I live, suspension changes require an engineers certification process to be permitted on the road - and a chassis change (aka DSE hydroformed subframe) is a whole lot more engineering certification pain than suspension modifications (aka DSE speed kit 3).

I'm looking for comment on the real world difference the DSE hydroformed frame advantage of spindles and rack and pinion etc would make in reality , over my apparently easier option of speed kit 3?

Do they drive much the same?

My car is 100% street driven, no auto x etc.

[WSSix]

Given the legal hurdles you have to go through and the fact that your car is street driven, I'd stick with component changes like the Speed 3 Kit or something similar from other vendors. The differences between the subframe swap and component swap may be apparent but if you won't be utilizing the capabilities of the subframe, why go through the cost and hassle?

I'm in the same boat as you but mines based more on dreams versus reality of funding a build with full on changes that, ultimately, I might not even need to have in order to enjoy my car.

[next69]

This is an interesting question, I would also like to know id there are any performance benefits to the aftermarket sub over the Speed 3 kit. If anyone has real world experience with both products please let us know your thoughts.

[kiwigt]

To the uninitiated (me) the benefits of the hydro subframe include spindles, rack and pinion steering and a nice anti sway bar setup. Do these factors make a significant difference on the street?

On the other hand I've read (internet) that the R&P turning radius is not as good as that of the 600 steering box

[Steve Chryssos]

The subframe upgrade will feel much more like a modern sports car including real world engineering benefits relative to the upgraded sub. …Like improved rigidity, steering feel, anti-dive characteristics, high speed stability, turn-in and more. You can only do so much with a stock sub and stay within the confines of the old frame rails, crossmember and factory sheet metal.

That's not to knock a stock sub with upgrades. That approach works well. But the added effort and expense of an aftermarket subframe swap does indeed bring added value.

[kiwigt]

The subframe upgrade will feel much more like a modern sports car including real world engineering benefits relative to the upgraded sub. …Like improved rigidity, steering feel, anti-dive characteristics, high speed stability, turn-in and more. You can only do so much with a stock sub and stay within the confines of the old frame rails, crossmember and factory sheet metal.

That's not to knock a stock sub with upgrades. That approach works well. But the added effort and expense of an aftermarket subframe swap does indeed bring added value.


Good feedback Steve - thanks for your considered reply. Makes me want to go the sub way despite the engineering cert dramas:)

[markss28]

From what I've read Ride tech makes a great front suspension and when u factor in cost of their parts it looks like a good value. If I had a first Gen that's what I'd get.