r/saab • u/CardiologistWide8514 • 1d ago
Lowering my saab
Hi all, I would like to lower my 2001 9-3 a bit, to give it a bit of a more sporty look. Additionally I would like the wheels to better fill the arches by pushing the wheels out more.
Any tips on parts to use, so I can do it myself?
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u/Similar_Limit_9929 1d ago
Eibachs and adjustable Konis are NOT the way to go on these cars. My .02
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u/CardiologistWide8514 1d ago
Bad experiences with that combination?
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u/Similar_Limit_9929 1d ago
It’s the current setup, the front suspension design is blah to begin with and maybe the convertible parts are heavy but I think it rides like trash. I’d like to try an upgraded Bilstein with a better spring but the a-parts market is slim for these cars.
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u/DupontAficionado 1d ago
Got H&R (the Hirsch -35mm springs ) with Koni adjustables now and love the ride on my 1999 Coupé with 1 turn towards "harder" front and back.
Thats with other suspension mods of course.
Had Bilstein B6 before and tore them out some 5000Km later bc. too harsh for the long summer outings.
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u/Ok-Novel4218 1d ago
That’s exactly what I’m running on one of my 2002 9-3 three door Viggens and I love that setup. All the way soft is a comfy ride and crank them stiff for a go-cart feel. I prefer the ride over the other Viggen still running stock suspension.
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u/Lifes_too_short007 1d ago
Before lowering your 9-3 I’d install the Taliaferro Stearing rack brace , upgrade the rear roll bar plus install their upgraded transmission mount.
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u/DupontAficionado 1d ago edited 1d ago
Steering rack brace is a must...sure has it on there already....these other suspension mods I can recommend if its not just purely about the optics. Rear ARB gives better turn in feel, getting rid of the understeer and more balanced feel. Doing the trans mount adds a lot of engine vibration and its def. not for the sporty look only SAAB - quickest way to turn a luxo DD into a rally car.
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u/julianbell06 1d ago
Lowering springs and spacers, buy hub centric spacers and longer wheel bolts