Lowering with front lift

[BangBang]

Set me straight. I’m buying my parts for when my car arrives.
I can not lower the car by the shock tower adjustment when it has front lift?
I have to lower it with collars?

[Foosh]

Yes, that is correct, but be aware that GM has been very clear that installing the lowering collars will put a warranty block on any issues with the front suspension and front lift.

[BangBang]

Thank you! Thought I read that, but couldn't find it doing a search. I'll order the wheel size to help close the gap.

[John]

Yes, that is correct, but be aware that GM has been very clear that installing the lowering collars will put a warranty block on any issues with the front suspension and front lift.

That is fact IF there there is ever an issue with those parts later. And replacing any of those issues due to an install problem is a VERY expensive repair. However, we believe that there have only been two individuals who have had this issue, and imo, repeating in my opinion, both were caused by improper installs. Guessing that counting the Stingray of course, that way over 500 hundred have done this mod and are smiling broadly in every way including never having a front end issue thereafter. But as Foosh has correctly pointed out, paraphrasing here, that old, smart modders’ expression “if you play, be prepared to pay” —for kiss your warranty’s *** goodbye.

[John]

Yes for those who have followed my Z06’s plans, I have not yet ruled out lowering collars for my Z06. Have to see its stance most importantly, and then consider all alternative available at that time. I would prefer alternative but my Z06 will “look cool”. It will be have the 4x4 option.

BTW and this top Corvette Engineer will not be name-mentioned, I had this exact conversation with one during the last year and he noted that lowering a Z06 is something he might also do on his personal Z06. We specifically discussed lowering collars as one of his consideration alternatives.

Ideally and I am afraid this will not happen, someone would come out with 5 or 10 mm spacers andas we have seen isolated Z06’s come from the factory with a decent stance, I get one of those. So far however as all who have followed my Z06’s acquisition efforts know, I am now on “Plan D” so luck has yet to shine on our way. Maybe that has just turned lol.

[Foosh]

Thank you! Thought I read that, but couldn't find it doing a search. I'll order the wheel size to help close the gap.

One alternative way to improve the appearance is to purchase a set of wheels from premium companies like forum vendor MRR or Forgeline. They have offsets that push the wheels out about 15mm, and that does make the gap appear to be much smaller. I was satisfied enough with that change to forget about lowering it from the OEM height.

Many of us have never been fans of any of the OEM wheels choices, and you can get a good set of flow-formed/rotary forged wheels for $1800-2400 that are much more attractive and reduce your unsprung weight. I went with the Forgeline F01s and stayed with the OEM tire sizes.

[John]

I could live with a stance like this (picture thanks to GMA), but what of course we do not know if the car was braking when the picture was taken.



However our Z06 will not keep a stance like below if after it has its “settling 1,000 miles” this is what it then looks like.

[John]

Foosh’s option is an excellent choice — done by many MECF members via their new MRR wheels.

So far three options folks have done, e.g., different wheels including upsizing and/or offset change; spacers; and, lowering collars. Any others?

[BangBang]

Just ordered wheels like Foosh suggested.

Thanks everyone.

[shiumai]

Thank you! Thought I read that, but couldn't find it doing a search. I'll order the wheel size to help close the gap.

Changing wheel size doesn't close the gap, because the overall tire diameter remains roughly the same. Larger diameter wheels will use a lower profile (thinner) tire to maintain the same approx diameter/circumference.

[Meldoon]

I had my collars installed by Criswell. Of course at the time of installation had an alignment. I am confident that Criswell would stand behind their work, never had a problem. Also went with aftermarket wheels, pleased with the appearance.

[Meldoon]

Changing wheel size doesn't close the gap, because the overall tire diameter remains roughly the same. Larger diameter wheels will use a lower profile (thinner) tire to maintain the same approx diameter/circumference.

Correct….the wheels are to correct the offset…..tires on mine are 1” larger diameter and 20mm wider.

[BangBang]

Since I hate the stock wheel choices. I ordered aftermarkets. If I don't like the appearance of the wheel gap I will rethink collars.

[smajicek]

For those z06 buyers that are getting carbon fiber wheels there is only 1 option, collars

[Foosh]

This really shouldn't be a debate about whether to install collars or not. Even if properly installed, GM has decided they will not pay for warranty repairs to the front lift or suspension if an owner goes that route. As long as anyone considering it understands that, they should go forth and do what they must.