Hi guys, I would like to know if there is a way to increase caster on a pretty much stock chassis. I understand you can do so by installing mk3 GTI 16V a-arms etc, or by changing to adjustable top mounts. Is there any way to do it? What kind of top mounts can I use (mind you this is a just a "for fun" car, trackdays etc, but not a money pit )? Thanks! Gonalo
you get bushes that can adjust the caster also a cheap way is to remove the alignment shim tube on the rear bush that gives you a few mm though the top mount would give you the most adjustment
I'm interested in both options above. So can you guys elaborate a bit more? Never heard of those shims not the balljoint spacers. Where can I get them or more information on them?
Aye bud that's what was on about not sure if they do mk2 or not but they do for the mk4 and they should fit
http://www.superpro.com.au/show-product/superpro-bushing-kit/orphan-SPF1912K Mk2 one. This is a popular mod on a mk5
To increase caster on a MK2, I use super pro rear wishbone bushes, that have an eccentric middle bush.
Ah, didn't know that such thing even existed!! As for the eccentric part, will it stay put in the specified position? Do you need to adjust it?
Right, that was I what I was reading! It seems the bushes get you 0.6. When I had the major issue with my car on -2 camber, it was 0.5 caster I believe. So, I could not get much caster going on anyway, if I wanted to go -2 camber. I believe that I've read that mk3 gti 16v control arms will give 6 caster? Is that so? Is the rule of thumb "get as much caster you can" true?
using 5 stud wishbones with 4 stud also moves the wheel forward in the arch so not ideal in some cases
Ok, so back to top mounts. How easy and safe are they to install and use? Either I'm not seeing how it will actually work, or it doesn't seem that solid. A couple 6mm or 8mm Allen screws will hold what ever happens there? Anyone has pictures of it? Maybe even installation?
Not sure ... my knowledge is from reading and talking to the guy that set up my Mk1 Golf. The car is for hillclimbs / sprints and is focused on the final point below. It has 5` positive caster using Compbrake top mounts. The benefits of increased caster are: Increased dynamic negative camber in turns Improved high speed stability Improved road feel, steering feedback and sensitivity Increased steering weight, this can be used to overcome some over compensating power steering systems Improves steering turn-in response during corner entry https://www.powerflex.co.uk/road-series/geometry-information
It seems that it's pretty much a good thing to do, to get more caster! PM sent. Not sure if it's the same between mk1 and mk2, but still, pictures are welcome! Thanks!
Thanks for the picture and explanation. I'm not sure why exactly, but my car seems to be off in the caster setup. With -2 Camber, it will have 0.34 caster. With -1 Camber, it will go up to 1 caster. Not that great, I believe...
You set it to have maximum castor when fitting and it stays like that once the wishbone is clamped forever.