Posts: 1,070
Threads: 115
Joined: Oct 2012
Thanks: 0
Given 0 thank(s) in 0 post(s)
Right I have had Apex dampers fitted to my car since 2011. Originally I would say the standard dampers on lowered springs and torsion beam did a damn good job, only got bouncy on the harshest of roads. Now since having the Apex units fitted I have found the ride uncomfortably harsh, the car bounces over every little bump/dip in the road and they are far too stiff.
I have waited enough for them to bed in and they have not improved in the slightest. I am using Jamex 40mm lowering springs with them.
So personally if you are looking for uprated dampers I would go with GTi spec OE dampers at the front and Citroen ZX (the shorter ones) at the back, as they are slightly stiffer than standard 306 units. I would also consider Bilstein B4 dampers as an OE replacement; but I don't know whether it is a case of "one size fits all" for 306s or they actually do separate versions for the different 306 models.
I tried the Apex units because I wanted to be different, but it bit me on the arse!
Posts: 20,092
Threads: 591
Joined: Nov 2012
Reputation:
54
Location: Cotswolds
Car Model/Spec: Stage 13 16v HDi
Thanks: 22
Given 68 thank(s) in 68 post(s)
07-09-2013, 06:35 AM
(This post was last modified: 07-09-2013, 06:36 AM by Piggy.)
apex....different?!
I wouldnt think its a one off case you running Apex!!
OE dampers are shocking imo. Bilstein ftw
and running since 2011?? I would think the springs and dampers need replacing now...would have all gone saggy
Posts: 1,070
Threads: 115
Joined: Oct 2012
Thanks: 0
Given 0 thank(s) in 0 post(s)
Not sure I follow Piggy? I haven't noticed a difference in them since I fitted them. As long as they don't leak, I need to get my money's worth from them.
From what I've read on here OE GTi dampers have a good rep. Don't know about the standard dampers on the other hand. Two years, for dampers? Seems a bit of a short lifespan?
Posts: 20,092
Threads: 591
Joined: Nov 2012
Reputation:
54
Location: Cotswolds
Car Model/Spec: Stage 13 16v HDi
Thanks: 22
Given 68 thank(s) in 68 post(s)
over that period time you wouldnt notice the change or drop in damper and feel.
2yrs is getting close to lifespan of a aftermarket cheap damper imo
Posts: 19,854
Threads: 581
Joined: Dec 2011
Reputation:
195
Location: Bournemouth
Car Model/Spec: Supercharged 306 GTi6
Thanks: 36
Given 82 thank(s) in 78 post(s)
(07-09-2013, 06:52 AM)306Puggy Wrote: Not sure I follow Piggy? I haven't noticed a difference in them since I fitted them. As long as they don't leak, I need to get my money's worth from them.
From what I've read on here OE GTi dampers have a good rep. Don't know about the standard dampers on the other hand. Two years, for dampers? Seems a bit of a short lifespan?
Correct if you buy genuine GTi dampers, they are great. The only copy of them thats worth buying i would say is Bilstein B4s and even then, they are a slight upgrade due to slightly harsher rebound
Team Eaton
1999 China Blue 306 GTi6 - Eaton Supercharged - 214.5bhp 181lbft
Posts: 1,950
Threads: 55
Joined: Dec 2011
Reputation:
17
Location: Rotherham
Car Model/Spec: 406 V6
Thanks: 3
Given 10 thank(s) in 10 post(s)
OE dampers are pretty good actually, so long as they are genuine ones.
Apex springs are okay, but their dampers are the same generic shite that's on ebay.
Custom roll cages/shiny suspension bits/general fabrication work undertaken, PM me.
Top engine mount repair/reinforcement/chocking for cracked chassis and high powered cars, drive in, drive out, 2 hour turnaround.
Posts: 1,497
Threads: 177
Joined: Dec 2011
Reputation:
3
Location: Highlands, Scotland
Thanks: 0
Given 0 thank(s) in 0 post(s)
I only use estate rear dampers
Posts: 1,497
Threads: 177
Joined: Dec 2011
Reputation:
3
Location: Highlands, Scotland
Thanks: 0
Given 0 thank(s) in 0 post(s)
Welder + hammer.... I thaught it was rears for somereason
