First Gen F-body Front Clip inputs
 

I am looking at replacing the OEM subframe with an aftermarket one like the TCI or Heidts. I have searched the forum and have found mixed reviews on everything except for the high end stuff (DS, AME, etc). I don’t have a budget for a detroit speed system but the plan for the car is not to autocross it or anything....more cruiser with trips to the drag strip. I just want the stance (without the harsh ride of lowering springs) and a nice handling car, so the high end stuff is just not for me. I am leaning towards the Heidts but looking for opinions from people who have used either recently.

With your plan and budget, no reason to throw out the stock front sub. You can get the lowered stance and coilovers on your stock sub and get the same ride for less than the cost of replacing the clip. DSE stage 2 kit is $2700 and both those subs are around $4400. Main advantage to most front subs is wider front wheels, but not all allow for that. Also there are usually other associated costs required with front clip installs not included the the price of the sub that add to the cost.

great info. I was wondering the same thing. I think ill just end up getting tubular control arms with coilovers.

What are the extra cost you were talking about when switching to a aftermarket subframe?

i found the Heidts for $3800 shipped with all the base options (no chrome, std wilwood brakes, no swaybar) but would add the sway bar and aluminum body mounts. What other things would be missing?

the appeal of the entire subframe is for rack and pinion. By the time i upgrade the OEM box/links/etc, i will be close to the heidts costs, no?

Tim's Hot Rods has the TCI unit for $4139 and that is including the anti-sway bar, power rack and zinc plated drilled/slotted rotors. Either clip is roughly 100 lbs lighter than stock.

You will also need a u-joint kit and a base plate for the column at the firewall.

steering u joints and dd shaft, brakes depending on choice of sub, brake lines, fuel lines, etc. Let me know if we can help.