I can not figure out how to get the pics bigger?
Anyways I need to order shocks/struts next plus some new mounts. I thing I am going with Koni SRTs for the jetta wagon. The king guys said use bilstiens HDs but I think that will be too stiff. Anyone care to weigh in??
I am using Bilstein TC's (firmer oe length replacements), stock Golf springs (for now), 20mm of lift, and 205/70-15" (26.3ish inch) Yokohama AT/S tires. This yields me a combo of zero rub, low to medium speed control, and enough ride height for the vast majority of the trails I rip up. For mild rally, rock crawling and general nice and not-so nice trail riding, it works. Overall, it is too soft off road, but great for a daily driver. I have 03' Jetta VR6/auto trans front springs (2 blue/2 white) ready to go in the front struts when I get a free moment....can't wait. Should yield another 1/4" to 1/2" when all set.
I would
not recommend the Koni strt struts. These struts are designed for oem height to mildly lowered cars. I was told that they most likely have a reduced rebound stroke (ie: shorter shaft). Why is this bad? When you lift you A4 car, you lose rebound stroke proportionally to the lift height. 1) You will hear/feel top out noise that may damage the shocks and struts. 2) If you install a strut that starts with a shorter stroke, you lose wheel articulation and therefore traction. And traction is the holy grail. Ask me how I know...
Koni Reds most likely mimic oem stroke lengths. You can also adjust your rebound speed to match your new springs. Since they are oil damped, ride characteristics generally don't change. Especially in the cold winter.
As for the King recommendations? They are absolutely correct. HD's have a larger piston diameter and are overall strong struts. But you are also correct. They are harsh on road. Especially in the cold winter. But remember, you asked for recommendations on a
rally set up. If this is your daily driver, you may have to think it through. My Golf is my wife's daily driver....she loves the way it drives and handles. Thus I didn't go with HD's.
Way back when,
These guys used to race an A4 Golf. Part of their suspension combo was VR6 Jetta w/auto trans sedan springs and Bilstein HD's. I don't recall the tire size but I'm sure a quick PM would yield a lot of info.
And on the mounts:
These would be best if you are going to be ripping fire roads up. The OE stuff degrades fairly easy. These mounts will cause more vibration.
This thread is a good starter. There are more TDi'ers that use these and have posted opinions.
I hope I didn't assume to much. Sounds like you are building a fun car.