Would you run budget suspension parts in your Camaro? (Speed Engineering) - Camaro5 Chevy Camaro Forum / Camaro ZL1, SS and V6 Forums

InFiD3ViL · 06-30-2023, 11:06 PM

So I was wondering how many of you would consider running budget suspension parts on your beloved Camaro?
The reason I ask is because Speed Engineering has a lineup of nicely priced rear suspension parts. I have a list as long as my arm of upgrades for my car, so I have no problem saving money where I can, as long as I am not buying sub-par or shady quality parts. I am not currently tracking the car, but plan on having her sorted out within the next year or two.

I am just wondering who would run these parts or if anyone here already has experience with the SE parts in regards to quality? Is it worth the savings or would I and others be better off sticking to the better known, proven brands at higher cost? I have tried to compare specs, such as plate thickness and bushing type and stiffness, but SE has limited info compared to brands such as BMR. I also have not been able to find much in regards to reviews, with the exception of some of their 4th gen stuff. Anyhow, at least we have more options now.

Figured I would list this here since some people may not know they sell more than headers and exhaust

SE's 5th gen catalog: https://speed-engineering.com/collec...aro-ss-1le-zl2

SE Adjustable Lower control arms $299: https://suspension-engineering.com/p...ms-2010-15-red

SE Adjustable Trailing Arms $149.99: https://suspension-engineering.com/p...justable-black

SE Adjustable Toe Rods $129.99: https://suspension-engineering.com/p...justable-black

ariZona28 · 07-01-2023, 01:03 AM

Quick answer: No. Save your money until you can buy the good stuff. I definitely understand being frugal but I'd be reluctant to cut corners on something as important as suspension pieces.

joekono · 07-01-2023, 04:20 AM

I agree with ariZona28 here. As a wise person once told me when I joined this forum, "start planting money trees". I'm going nuts this year because the next three "mods" I want to do are quite expensive, Katzkins seats, upgraded radio and new tail lights. Two of them are over $1000 bucks(seats and radio) so they ain't happening this year but as far as performance parts, I would get as much information as I can on the product i.e. suspension, exhausts and make my decision from there. We all probably learn that the best performing parts are the most expensive(most times).

Blue 13 · 07-01-2023, 05:52 AM

I have a bunch of BMR pieces on my car and AFE coil overs. I’m a huge proponent of “you get what you pay for”.

TheFlyingBananaSS · 07-01-2023, 06:15 AM

I went with BMR and Detroit Speed. Satisfied customer. Glad I spent for top parts.

morepowerjoe · 07-01-2023, 07:59 AM

You definitely get what you pay for most of the time because there's parts that I don't even want to get in to that some of the guys pay ridicules amounts for. On those particular parts that you have listed I don't think it's a big deal on hard fixed parts like that, I mean poly is poly unless there's something magically different between two manufactures. It's the other things I wouldn't skimp on like shocks, springs, ball joints, brake pads oil, ect.

1JEWLDSSRS · 07-01-2023, 08:30 AM

Agreed with all the above. I have always bought the "top quality" parts for my baby. It is worth it in the end and like they said, you do get what you pay for! As I see it, these cars are worth the little extra for quality parts. And for certain, they will last longer and you won't have to worry about your decision.

1JEWLDSSRS · 07-01-2023, 08:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by joekono

I agree with ariZona28 here. As a wise person once told me when I joined this forum, "start planting money trees". I'm going nuts this year because the next three "mods" I want to do are quite expensive, Katzkins seats, upgraded radio and new tail lights. Two of them are over $1000 bucks(seats and radio) so they ain't happening this year but as far as performance parts, I would get as much information as I can on the product i.e. suspension, exhausts and make my decision from there. We all probably learn that the best performing parts are the most expensive(most times).

Hey Joe, looks like your trees are doing fine!! With that list of mods she's gonna look awesome! As if she doesn't already!!

0stones0 · 07-01-2023, 09:36 AM

I agree with “you get what you pay for” most of the time.
Looking at the pics, those mig welds appear solid but, I’m a big fan of the strength of tig welds.

Blue 13 · 07-01-2023, 10:03 AM

I have all three of those made by BMR in non-adjustable versions and have zero problems or complaints.

Aqua Blue RS/SS · 07-01-2023, 10:17 AM

Hey Joe I’ll trade you

I’m slowly gathering parts for an LSA swap with cam and supporting minds… should be in the neighborhood of 10K when it’s all said and done.
I’m in the camp of you get what you pay for as well, headers are one thing suspension parts are another.

RupertPupkin · 07-01-2023, 12:09 PM

Send it.

joekono · 07-01-2023, 01:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Aqua Blue RS/SS

Hey Joe I’ll trade you

I’m slowly gathering parts for an LSA swap with cam and supporting minds… should be in the neighborhood of 10K when it’s all said and done.
I’m in the camp of you get what you pay for as well, headers are one thing suspension parts are another.

Wow!!!!Aqua Blue RS/SS, 10K. You must be growing a money jungle!!!

joekono · 07-01-2023, 01:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1JEWLDSSRS

Hey Joe, looks like your trees are doing fine!! With that list of mods she's gonna look awesome! As if she doesn't already!!

Thanks 1JEWLDSSRS, you trained your student well.

06-30-2023, 11:06 PM	#1
InFiD3ViL Drives: 2010 CGM 2SS/RS LS3 Swapped A6 Join Date: Sep 2016 Location: Spring Hill, FL Posts: 4,575	Would you run budget suspension parts in your Camaro? (Speed Engineering) So I was wondering how many of you would consider running budget suspension parts on your beloved Camaro? The reason I ask is because Speed Engineering has a lineup of nicely priced rear suspension parts. I have a list as long as my arm of upgrades for my car, so I have no problem saving money where I can, as long as I am not buying sub-par or shady quality parts. I am not currently tracking the car, but plan on having her sorted out within the next year or two. I am just wondering who would run these parts or if anyone here already has experience with the SE parts in regards to quality? Is it worth the savings or would I and others be better off sticking to the better known, proven brands at higher cost? I have tried to compare specs, such as plate thickness and bushing type and stiffness, but SE has limited info compared to brands such as BMR. I also have not been able to find much in regards to reviews, with the exception of some of their 4th gen stuff. Anyhow, at least we have more options now. Figured I would list this here since some people may not know they sell more than headers and exhaust SE's 5th gen catalog: https://speed-engineering.com/collec...aro-ss-1le-zl2 SE Adjustable Lower control arms $299: https://suspension-engineering.com/p...ms-2010-15-red SE Adjustable Trailing Arms $149.99: https://suspension-engineering.com/p...justable-black SE Adjustable Toe Rods $129.99: https://suspension-engineering.com/p...justable-black Attached Images __________________ 2010 CGM Camaro 2SS LS3 Swapped A6 - GPI LS3 SS1 .647/.638, (224/237, 112 +4, 7º overlap) on CamMotion 8620 core, BTR Platinum .660" Dual Spring kit w/titanium retainers, CHE bronze trunnion upgrade, stock heads milled @ .015, Melling HV 10296 oil pump, TSP 1-7/8" long tube headers (W/Catless Off-road Pipes), Corsa Xtreme 3" Catback, GPI Ported/Rod Mod Intake, Stage 2 Ported Throttle Body, Vararam OTR CAI, Mike Norris Gen 2 catch can + GM 1LE clean side separator, 160º thermostat - Megan Racing adjustable coilovers (lowered 1.75"), MRR M017 10/11" wheels-Tuned by Ryan @ GPI

07-01-2023, 01:03 AM	#2
ariZona28 Give speed a chance Drives: 2015 Camaro 2LS, 2015 Camaro Z/28 Join Date: Nov 2019 Location: Mesa, Az Posts: 2,234	Quick answer: No. Save your money until you can buy the good stuff. I definitely understand being frugal but I'd be reluctant to cut corners on something as important as suspension pieces. __________________ 2LS: a TREMENDOUS machine. Z/28: it's a BIT MORE POWERFUL, of course.

07-01-2023, 04:20 AM	#3
joekono Drives: Camaro Convertible 2014 1LT Join Date: May 2019 Location: New Jersey Posts: 1,013 View My Garage	I agree with ariZona28 here. As a wise person once told me when I joined this forum, "start planting money trees". I'm going nuts this year because the next three "mods" I want to do are quite expensive, Katzkins seats, upgraded radio and new tail lights. Two of them are over $1000 bucks(seats and radio) so they ain't happening this year but as far as performance parts, I would get as much information as I can on the product i.e. suspension, exhausts and make my decision from there. We all probably learn that the best performing parts are the most expensive(most times). __________________

07-01-2023, 05:52 AM	#4
Blue 13 3P171 USAF Combat Arms Drives: 2013 SS/RS Join Date: Jul 2021 Location: Olmsted AFB Posts: 264	I have a bunch of BMR pieces on my car and AFE coil overs. I’m a huge proponent of “you get what you pay for”. __________________ 416ci LS3/Vortech V7/Built 6L80 991.8 RWHP 792.4 RWTQ

07-01-2023, 06:15 AM	#5
TheFlyingBananaSS Evil Genius of Chevrolet Drives: 2017 Z06, 2019 XTS, 2013 SS Join Date: Feb 2017 Location: New York Posts: 3,260	I went with BMR and Detroit Speed. Satisfied customer. Glad I spent for top parts. __________________ GPI SS2 VVT cam, ECS Novi 1500 supercharger, Corsa Extreme, Detroit Speed and BMR suspension, Circle D triple disc, Melling oil pump, LS2 chain tensioner, ATI 10% UD, DSX E85 kit, High Energy coils, BTR springs, LS2 Lifter trays, Titanium retainers, hardened push rods, FIC 1000 injectors, ZL1 pump, Mighty Mouse catch can, AEM gauges, Tial BOV, Richmond 3.91 gears, Custom gauge bezels, Speed Engineering headers, Stainless Works HF cats, DSX Aux pump, 710rwhp on E85.

07-01-2023, 07:59 AM	#6
morepowerjoe Drives: 2012 Chevrolet Camaro l99 Join Date: Aug 2020 Location: Austin, TX Posts: 2,109	You definitely get what you pay for most of the time because there's parts that I don't even want to get in to that some of the guys pay ridicules amounts for. On those particular parts that you have listed I don't think it's a big deal on hard fixed parts like that, I mean poly is poly unless there's something magically different between two manufactures. It's the other things I wouldn't skimp on like shocks, springs, ball joints, brake pads oil, ect. __________________ DSS FX Forged Pistons, Eagle ESP L19 Forged Rods, ARP Head and Main Studs, TSP PRC 260 CNC Ported Heads milled .030, Cometic .040 Head Gaskets, GPI SS3 VVT Camshaft, GM Performance Racing Lifters, CHE Trunnions , Molly Pushrods, Melling 10355HV Oil Pump, Cold Air Inductions CAI, Fast LSXR Intake Manifold, Nick Williams 103 TB, TSP 1 7/8" Longtubes with 3" TSP Exhaust, ZL1 Fuel Pump, Mishimoto Radiator, Mishimoto Oil Cooler, Tru Cool 40k Tranny Cooler, 3600 Circle D Converter, Fluid Dynamics Balancer Build Thread https://www.camaro5.com/forums/showthread.php?t=609817

07-01-2023, 08:30 AM	#7
1JEWLDSSRS Drives: 2011 SS-RS Join Date: May 2011 Location: FLORIDA Posts: 11,442	Agreed with all the above. I have always bought the "top quality" parts for my baby. It is worth it in the end and like they said, you do get what you pay for! As I see it, these cars are worth the little extra for quality parts. And for certain, they will last longer and you won't have to worry about your decision. __________________ TSP STAGE 3 CAM,231/246 @112 LSA 614/641 LIFT, CIRCLE D 5C-4200-4500 CONVERTER,LOD INTAKE.CORSA EXHAUST. DSS 1 PC DS. PEGASUS SOLID CRADLE MOUNTS. 486RWHP/475RWTQ.LOTS MORE.

07-01-2023, 09:36 AM	#9
0stones0 It don’t come easy. Drives: 2010 2SS RS M6 Join Date: May 2014 Location: WI Posts: 2,211 View My Garage	I agree with “you get what you pay for” most of the time. Looking at the pics, those mig welds appear solid but, I’m a big fan of the strength of tig welds. __________________

07-01-2023, 10:03 AM	#10
Blue 13 3P171 USAF Combat Arms Drives: 2013 SS/RS Join Date: Jul 2021 Location: Olmsted AFB Posts: 264	I have all three of those made by BMR in non-adjustable versions and have zero problems or complaints. __________________ 416ci LS3/Vortech V7/Built 6L80 991.8 RWHP 792.4 RWTQ

07-01-2023, 10:17 AM	#11
Aqua Blue RS/SS Drives: ABM #93 Join Date: Oct 2018 Location: Lotaburger Posts: 2,695	Hey Joe I’ll trade you I’m slowly gathering parts for an LSA swap with cam and supporting minds… should be in the neighborhood of 10K when it’s all said and done. I’m in the camp of you get what you pay for as well, headers are one thing suspension parts are another. __________________ ABM #2399 2SS/RS:SOLD ABM #93 2SS/RS Black Rally stripes, Titanium Interior 4,000 miles: GM GFX side skirts and diffuser waiting on paint, GM dovetail, GM heritage, RPI ZL1 style splitter. ‘87 IROC-Z Iroc blue. all original unmolested with 50K miles. Last edited by Aqua Blue RS/SS; 07-01-2023 at 10:29 AM.

07-01-2023, 12:09 PM	#12
RupertPupkin Drives: 2014 Camaro SS 1Le Join Date: Feb 2016 Location: IL Posts: 1,606	Send it. __________________ 2014 SS 1LE Money Pit/ Forged 402 CAM 22X/24X, .619/.617, 113 LSA/ LS9 Heads FIC 1200cc/DSX Aux Pump//McLeod RXT Clutch 730whp: 630Trq