Strut Tower Brace

ZaraThustra · Post by **ZaraThustra** » 18 Sep 2003, 15:43

I'm interested in installing a strut tower brace on my 850 wagon.

Most braces that are available seem to be very simple designs...I've even thought about fabricating one myself.

I did run into to one that is being offered by IPD that is quite interesting:
http://www.ipdusa.com/ProductsCat.aspx? ... RootID=629

All that IPD gives for information is that it is made by Cherry Turbo. Being that I can't find anything about the company and especially the design, I would appreciate any input regarding this brace compared to traditional setups....Thanks

Guest · Post by **Guest** » 19 Sep 2003, 09:34

always visit their website but have never bought anything.

I agree with you that the IPD brace does look interesting. It's one of the best if not the best that I have seen. price is expensive though. The design have taken into consideration all the degrees of freedom, a circular v shape is really rigid mathematically....very cool and also very expensive...the bar also looks v shape thats good...looks like it cannot flex at all.

Looks very difficult to copy without machine tools.

Post by **matthew1** » 19 Sep 2003, 10:35

It does look very rigid, almost like what would have come from the factory if that had been an option.

My OMP brace is ok... it was kinda hard to get on because the holes didn't match because the body of the car was already flexing

, even when parked with the hood up. It was $140 if memory serves. Did it improve the ride/handling? Yes, but only becuase I know it's there, and logic says so. In a blind test it would be difficult indeed to tell the difference.

Which braces are better? Nobody will ever know, I'm afraid. Demand for a test of strut braces ranks right up there between demand for testing headlight wiper blades and relocated horn trumpet sound volume

.

ZaraThustra · Post by **ZaraThustra** » 19 Sep 2003, 11:35

Yes the steeper price is the concern to whether it's worth it or if it's just a glamour thing.

The thought process I have is since the car has 149k mi., an inexpensive structural tightner might be the 1st thing to do before I get into sway bars, other suspension conponents, wheels, tires etc...any input...the body and mechanicals of the car are solid.

Thanks

ZaraThustra · Post by **ZaraThustra** » 19 Sep 2003, 11:47

Mathew, I do understand that the brace is probably more show than go and hence no testing...but when I'm going to spend a couple hundred dollars, I guess I'd like to justify it with more than just by the vainness.

Thanks for your help, I certainly appreciate your comments

Post by **matthew1** » 20 Sep 2003, 01:02

Zara, by all means get that sweet brace. If I didnt' have one I'd get that thing in a second. Totally cool.

It's just good knowing you have it, and it helps. Don't worry over $ per upgrade. If you can afford it, get it.

And take pics of the installation. I'll post a How - To for strut tower installation. Have fun ... that's what this is all about

ZaraThustra · Post by **ZaraThustra** » 20 Sep 2003, 11:51

Thanks for your help and support.

I will get it. I'm flying to Chicago today and will be back on Weds. At that time I will order it.

After I install it I will get back with you.

Again...Thanks