I just got off the phone with Ground Control, I spoke to the owner and the Project Mgr for our kits so this is good information. They are dangerously close to being ready to ship. They are waiting on one piece that is on back order with one of their suppliers, but all of the GC parts are on the shelf. I have been asked to start a list for the GP so they will have an idea of what to kit and get ready for when the last part arrives. Hopefully by the time we get a comprehensive list of buyers together the last part will have arrived.

To my knowledge the quoted price has been $499.00, I don't know if the price drops depending on interested buyers.

Dreamin has spring rates of 500# (front) and 550# (rear). Those are the spring rates they are planning around. They also have 600# in stock. If anybody wants 650# or higher you should indicate that too.

They can't say for sure when, but soon, very soon. :bouncy: :bouncy: :bouncy: :bouncy: 1for each corner of my car

Who's in//
1)rgd

I'm in for a set (500lbs front/550lbs rear sounds good, but I no suspension expert). And I just wanted to make sure that this kit has the spacers for the rear nivomats and everything else needed to lower the car.

I'm In For The 500+550.

I'm in and I can't wait, money is in hand.

ok but remember
from our RULES
Commercial solicitations may be posted in the forum they most apply to as long as the company conducting the group buy is a supporting vendor at cadillacforums.com.

Messages promoting a commercial entity that is not a supporting vendor of cadillacforums.com may be deleted at any time at the discretion of cadillacforums.com moderators and administrators.


Somebody's going to have to become a Vendor.

Not again,Well,I want coil overs,I'm in with cash in hand to the supporting vendor who puts this GP on.How's that Urb?

Little confused here...

EDITED** as to not give any vendors any ideas.

Am I missing something?

Dreamin, don't you WANT new shocks when doing coil-overs?

Not that I think my fg2s are no good.

The coil-overs you're thinking of have shocks and adjustable springs... the GC kit is adjustable springs, it uses the factory (FE4 or FG2) shocks.

rgd: I'll call GC tomorrow... i've been telling them to become a supporting vendor since Jan!

Dreamin,
Please remind me again:
-these C/O drop the car and GC provides the spacers to fool the FG2's ?
-the ride and handling are improved over stock springs?
- with the hotchkiss bars are new endlinks nessesary and which ones should we use?

Thanks dreamin for the info!
I think i would like them!!!!'
-Moldy

Dreamin,
Please remind me again:
-these C/O drop the car and GC provides the spacers to fool the FG2's ?
-the ride and handling are improved over stock springs?
- with the hotchkiss bars are new endlinks nessesary and which ones should we use?

Thanks dreamin for the info!
I think i would like them!!!!'
-Moldy

-Yes, car can be dropped to your spec from 0" to 1+". Adjusting height later is very easy.
-You choose spring rate (when ordering the kit). GC, WW, and I recommend 500lbs front / 550lbs rear with either shock.
-Handling is improved, lean is reduced, brake dive is reduced, etc.
-Ride improvement is subjective: the ride is a *little* firmer, more solid... you feel potholes, bumps, etc more. So Luna would say "improved"... my wife says "i dont remember this road being so bumpy" (really torn up road in downtown SF)
- With hotkiss bars, if you lower 0.75" or more you need the Z06 front sway bar links. Stock rear links are fine. http://www.cadillacforums.com/forums/cadillac-cts-v-series-forum/67156-hotchkis-sway-bar-end-link-problem.html?

Finally, I do not know if they have built spacers to fool the nivomats, that was their original plan, but I dont know if they finished that part... might have to still go with WW's mod. Maybe WW could build a 100 sets and sell them to GC??!

Florian is IN!!!

Been waiting a long time. :highfive:


F

:tisk: Shamne on me, sorry.

But :thumbsup:
These guys are going to become supporting members. I will talk to them and be sure they join etc...

ok but remember
from our RULES
Commercial solicitations may be posted in the forum they most apply to as long as the company conducting the group buy is a supporting vendor at cadillacforums.com.

Messages promoting a commercial entity that is not a supporting vendor of cadillacforums.com may be deleted at any time at the discretion of cadillacforums.com moderators and administrators.


Somebody's going to have to become a Vendor.

Dreamin,
Cool, this is your thing anyway... :worship:
I didn't read thru so I won't call tomorrow and let you handle it. "You da MAN" :highfive:

The coil-overs you're thinking of have shocks and adjustable springs... the GC kit is adjustable springs, it uses the factory (FE4 or FG2) shocks.

rgd: I'll call GC tomorrow... i've been telling them to become a supporting vendor since Jan!

I'm in! 500/550 please.

Yahmin2.

yep 500/550

I am in. :bouncy:
Hope they ship to Toronto, Canada.

Count me in too, 500/550

Definately ready to buy, been waiting! 500/550

I'm in! 500/550 is fine

Me too!!

Sounds good. 400/700 for me.

.



















hehehe Just kidding. I'll take the 500/550 combo please.

Been waiting for this. I'm in for 500/550.

Why do you want the rear springs stiffer than the front? I thought you want the front slightly stiffer so that you do not make the rear too tight, that is at least how it is for my Z06.

Gents...I too am running the 500f/550r springs. I swapped them around and have to be honest - for ME the lighter springs go in the front (with FG2).

I could be persuaded to make up some more kits...I still have a dozen or so, but need to get a little money for them this time. You know, something that will make me rich (no supporting vendor status necessary, trust me) like $10 a kit to cover shipping and cost of materials.

Mods/Admins, please don't ban me...oh...wait...this isn't the not so STR8 guy forum...I'm OK :histeric:

WW

Gents...I too am running the 500f/550r springs. I swapped them around and have to be honest - for ME the lighter springs go in the front (with FG2).

I could be persuaded to make up some more kits...I still have a dozen or so, but need to get a little money for them this time. You know, something that will make me rich (no supporting vendor status necessary, trust me) like $10 a kit to cover shipping and cost of materials.

Mods/Admins, please don't ban me...oh...wait...this isn't the not so STR8 guy forum...I'm OK :histeric:

WW
little "kits" and DIY mods offered by our members are always allowed.
reference RobertCTSs eyelids, and HMs gaskets.
Commercial large-dollar sales like GC have to be from Vendors, and that's just the bottom line.

ttt Any news?


F

Add me to the list please !!!! :)

Wheres the list?

Well add me too.

Wheres the list?

Well add me too.

Credit card in hand..........patiently waiting............

Count me in for sure, 550/500 can't wait!

Sorry! meant 500f/550r Thanks.

Can anybody who is asking for 500 for the front and 550 for the rear please explain why??

My Z06 has the VBP Extreme Kit which is 850 for the front and 750 for the rear.

I have intrest in this for our CTS-V but don't understand why everybody wants the rear stiffer?

I would assume it's to dial in the understeer. Though our cars are pretty well balanced in terms of handling, virtually every car manufacturer will tune their cars with some amount of understeer, due to safety concerns and all. But the likes of those on this forum would most likely say nay to any amount of understeer, hence the further stiffening up of the rear suspension.

Any and all, feel free to intercede if I am incorrect in my assumptions. G'day den mait.

Can anybody who is asking for 500 for the front and 550 for the rear please explain why??

My Z06 has the VBP Extreme Kit which is 850 for the front and 750 for the rear.

I have intrest in this for our CTS-V but don't understand why everybody wants the rear stiffer?

You can't compare springs rate (or spring rate increases) across cars.

The V comes with 400lbs springs front and rear. And GM has dialed-in some understeer. Running 500f/500r gives basically the same amount of understeer. To reduce understeer you increase rear spring rate (or decrease front spring rate). Running 500f/550r decreases understeer just a hair, making the handling extremely neutral... without any snap oversteer or nastiness.

These spring rates were chosen by GC after significant R&D (calculating wheel rates, measuring shock frequencies... see my BIG GC thread for more info)... and real world street and track testing.

Thanks, that is what I needed!

SOUNDS GOOD, keep us updated.

Why isn't GC posting yet?Mods?Are they supporting members yet,in the works?You would think they would want to get a list started and start taking some money from us.

Sorry for being late...but I would be interested in a set if the price was right!!

I'm in with money in hand

ttt What is GC waiting for? Take my money (and wife), Please!


F

Count me in too! 500/550 for me. And these will work with the stock shocks? My car is a 2004.

Im in. 500f - 550r.

The faq at http://www.cadillacfaq.com/faq/answers/loweringkit/index.html says they are recommending 500f/450r and that the FE4's can only handle 500. Why are so many people going 550, do they have the FG2's?

cjones -

I believe Dreamin did a typo on those numbers. Early on they tried a 450 but things have changed since then (the info is a touch out of date). The spring rates currently being recommended are the same whether FE4 or FG2 - 500 front and 550 rear.

Also note that they are using the shorter 1000 springs. For those of you who care when you get them (assuming they don't change the kit from the beta set I'm using) I've listed some starting points below for the FG2 shocks - and feel these are the LOWEST ride height settings you should use. For whatever reason, the FG2 fronts will in fact result in a lower ride height than the FE4 with the same collar adjustment. I've never measured, but believe it is simply the location of the factory groove in the shocks which holds the lower perch in place.

On the rear, run the collars all the way up then back down 3 full turns. I believe this to be the lowest you can possibly go with the WW spacer mod on the rear shocks. I am currently intending to go one more full turn lower (which raises the ride height by approximately 1/4"), as my car sits very level and possibly a touch too low in the rear. A slight rake is my preference.

On the front, in my case, the adjusting collars are flush with the TOP of the threaded adjustment sleeve (red in pics). Also, be careful torquing the top of the shocks to tighten everything up on the top perch. I twisted one shock shaft in half about half way through the threads.

I am also trying something a little different up there. I think they'll be sending a different sized/hardness rubber o-ring for the washer above the aluminum upper perch assembly (or hope they will). The material needs to be a little thicker. I have the cupped washer inverted with no rubber spacer and sometimes hear a very minor noise. I'll be placing a 1/4" santoprene or poly spacer there when I get around to it to eliminate the noise.

Otherwise, enjoy. Really an easy install. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND going with the Hots bars, Z06 front end links, and some quality lube at the same time. Get ready to feel like you've shed a few hundred lbs from your V. Heck, while you're in there, if you need anything done with the brakes, now is the time.

WW

Here is a quick update on the GC kits. They are still VERY close, there is one piece they are waiting on. Unfortunately they don't make the piece needed to complete the kit. There is a possibility that some parts might come in this week but it is still unconfirmed. They will become a supporting vendor as soon as they receive the last piece needed. I suggested they join now take orders, kit each order so when the last piece comes in they can ship immediately. Unfortunately they are so damn busy due to race season they don't have time to breathe let alone get ahead of the game.

I have been pushing them to make sure no time is wasted simply because I have another track event this month and I want my suspension finished (finally). With that in mind I am putting the list as I see it so far. Then it can be cut and pasted or what ever is needed. I am in no way affiliated other than same as everybody on the list; I want my toy upgrade!!

The List:
rgd 600/650
tweeter81
caddiyesso
99m3
rp64ctsv
moldowan
Florain
Calicadi
atdeneve
1badcady
Silver Baron
Silver05V
Venomous-V
TXSilverV
ronr
thebigjimshow
KCzV
CASH (?)
SilverV
dannystang
BowenCT
1funV
alcast082
Staxxin
D-Rock
cajunairman
2003RC51
pietroraimondi

Im still :bouncy: :bouncy: :bouncy: :bouncy: but gettin fricken tired!

a no-brainer 15K in business and they want to go racing? (I guess I can understand) but, how can you hold off that kind of money? Open your doors, take the orders and suck it up....


F

I am sure there are many more that want the kit, some for track events or better handling, others for aesthetic reasons (damn v needs a drop)
ANY HOW WE NEED THEM:thepan:

RGD,

Thanks again for putting this together like this for everybody. But, still one question that was asked before and I don't believe I have seen it answered yet is: Are they going to include the pillow spacer for the rear shocks as this is a pretty integral part and the car would not be successfully lowered if this part is not included with everything else. Let us know. :highfive:

I'm in too! 500/550.

On a scale of 1-10 how hard is this install for the DIYers??

I installed sport springs on my last Acura. A torque wrench, some sockets and a spring compressor were all I needed for that.

RGD,

Thanks again for putting this together like this for everybody. But, still one question that was asked before and I don't believe I have seen it answered yet is: Are they going to include the pillow spacer for the rear shocks as this is a pretty integral part and the car would not be successfully lowered if this part is not included with everything else. Let us know. :highfive:

I am assuming you are talking about the spacer (wldwhl's invention). I don't know, I have QA1 shocks so it is not applicable to me. However Dreamin mentioned something about GC working on some possible fix to the rear shock issue and/or there is always wilwhl. I will check with Dreamin first then GC if he is unsure. I will get an answer one way or the other. May take couple days though.

Recipe: Spacers cut by wildwhl

(note: they aren't perfect but work fine)

Ingredients:

wildwhl logs on to www.mcmaster.com and orders several sheets of plastic.

Time to bake - load sheet into laser cutter and return in ~4 hours to see if it is finished.

Quantity - as many as can fit efficiently on 12" x 24" stock.

Time to make ~500 kits - weeks at my pace, but really not that bad if the materials are on hand. Just swap sheets every few hours, providing there is no *paying* work on the lasercutter.

If you guys need them, we'll cut some more. No big deal. I really should sell a bunch to GC in return for a production coilover kit...but I'm too busy as well.

WW

The list-I'm close to the top,if this list reflects who gets their coilovers first,let me switch with somebody who needs this stuff for the track.Cool?

I'm ready to order also!
500/550 please.

rgd-Had ? by me but I am good, I will stick witht he trend and go 500/550.

Are the nivomat shocks the only ones that need the spacers? I am assuming that if I buy some QA1 shocks that this kit will work with them?

I believe Dreamin did a typo on those numbers.
The correct spring rate is 500lbs front, 550lbs rear.

a no-brainer 15K in business and they want to go racing?
Supporting racers and race teams... the GC staff is not racing.

However Dreamin mentioned something about GC working on some possible fix to the rear shock issue and/or there is always wilwhl.
rgd, you should check with GC... they are working on their own spacers... but i dont know where they are with them. The initial people may have to go with the WW solution.

Are the nivomat shocks the only ones that need the spacers? I am assuming that if I buy some QA1 shocks that this kit will work with them?Yes, only nivomats need spacers... The kit is designed to work with stock shocks... it may or may not work with the QA1s. But rgd has QA1s so he'll be the guinea pig.


...well off to Greece for 2 weeks of vacationing... hope the kit is shipping before i get back!!

I hope I'm not to late. If I can get in on this, count me in!

rgd-Had ? by me but I am good, I will stick witht he trend and go 500/550.

Are the nivomat shocks the only ones that need the spacers? I am assuming that if I buy some QA1 shocks that this kit will work with them?

I am sure the QA1's will work. They are the same size for the sleeve to fit over. I am actually going with 600/650 spring rate. I think the QA1 shocks will handle that rate. If not I can have them re-built or go down in spring rate. The tit will definitely work mechanically though.

Here is a quick update on the GC kits. They are still VERY close, there is one piece they are waiting on. Unfortunately they don't make the piece needed to complete the kit. There is a possibility that some parts might come in this week but it is still unconfirmed. They will become a supporting vendor as soon as they receive the last piece needed. I suggested they join now take orders, kit each order so when the last piece comes in they can ship immediately. Unfortunately they are so damn busy due to race season they don't have time to breathe let alone get ahead of the game.

I have been pushing them to make sure no time is wasted simply because I have another track event this month and I want my suspension finished (finally). With that in mind I am putting the list as I see it so far. Then it can be cut and pasted or what ever is needed. I am in no way affiliated other than same as everybody on the list; I want my toy upgrade!!

The List:
rgd 600/650
tweeter81
caddiyesso
99m3
rp64ctsv
moldowan
Florain
Calicadi
atdeneve
1badcady
Silver Baron
Silver05V
Venomous-V
TXSilverV
ronr
thebigjimshow
KCzV
CASH
SilverV
dannystang
BowenCT
1funV
alcast082
Staxxin
D-Rock
cajunairman
2003RC51
pietroraimondi
Seattle CTS-V
blown blackcaddy
M. Stoehrer

Im still :bouncy: :bouncy: :bouncy: :bouncy: but gettin fricken tired!

Quick addition of names to list...

Here is a quick update on the GC kits. They are still VERY close, there is one piece they are waiting on. Unfortunately they don't make the piece needed to complete the kit. There is a possibility that some parts might come in this week but it is still unconfirmed. They will become a supporting vendor as soon as they receive the last piece needed. I suggested they join now take orders, kit each order so when the last piece comes in they can ship immediately. Unfortunately they are so damn busy due to race season they don't have time to breathe let alone get ahead of the game.

I have been pushing them to make sure no time is wasted simply because I have another track event this month and I want my suspension finished (finally). With that in mind I am putting the list as I see it so far. Then it can be cut and pasted or what ever is needed. I am in no way affiliated other than same as everybody on the list; I want my toy upgrade!!

The List:
rgd 600/650
tweeter81
caddiyesso
99m3
rp64ctsv
moldowan
Florain
Calicadi
atdeneve
1badcady
Silver Baron
Silver05V
Venomous-V
TXSilverV
ronr
thebigjimshow
KCzV
CASH
SilverV
dannystang
BowenCT
1funV
alcast082
Staxxin
D-Rock
cajunairman
2003RC51
pietroraimondi
Seattle CTS-V
blown blackcaddy
M. Stoehrer

Im still :bouncy: :bouncy: :bouncy: :bouncy: but gettin fricken tired!

Quick addition of names to list...

Just got off of the phone with them (Ground control) and they without mentioning any names wanted me to tell everybody to BE PATIENT! The kit will be released very soon. :thumbsup:

Beta testing the product is a bitch I guess, but there are some of you out there somewhere doing it aren't you? :bigroll:

[quote=blown black caddy]without mentioning any names wanted me to tell everybody to BE PATIENT! The kit will be released very soon. :thumbsup:

Without mentioning names; Gee let me guess...:want: !
Well maybe if they would get some real time answers from suppliers. Depending on who you spoke to dictates the answer you received. Status of the kit shipping has nothing to do with Beta testing any more, it's all about one part missing that they don't manufacture. A part by the way(M_rk-without mentioning names) said thought might be in today! Patients is a virtue, for the first four months of hearing, "two weeks- two more weeks"! Then patients slips into insanity! :eek:

Hurry up and wait, and be patient about it! :rolleyes:
As his insanity slowly slipped in he quietly rolled his eyes to dream of his upcoming track day on May 26th, yet there was a :ill: feeling fogging up what should be a dream only on :cloud9:, is it possible his suspension would be fixed in time :bouncy: or will he be :rant2: because he didn't buy those headers that have been on hold for way too long!

Wow-sorry I must have gone nuts there for a minute!

LOL :thumbsup:

Gents -

To be fair to GC, it is *possible* that they want to see my car. I installed the kit and haven't made it their way for their review. I was the first FG2 beta tester - not sure if there are more.

I'm just back from vacation with the family, and know I'll have a mountain of work to catch up on at the shop. That being said, I hope to be in their neck of the woods Saturday the 13th. I'll drop by and have them review for any issues they might see.

Later,

WW

Hell, I'm in, 500/550.

Gents -

I have left several messages for GC, almost daily for a week. I did not make it to their place since they have not called me back. I was more than willing to go - as I went over the hill anyway.

The message I keep leaving is GO! GO! GO! Everything is a GO! from my end.

Not sure what more I can do to help. I've left my cell phone, home phone, and work phones and emailed them several times as well.

Sorry, wish I could do more.

WW

Thanks Wildwhl for everything you have done already. I think I speak for everyone when I say I believe the ball is totally in GC's court now and you have gone above and beyond the call of duty, (being the guinea pig, etc.) Thanks again, from one young forum member who will benefit in the future from your diligence.

C.J.

Gents -

I have left several messages for GC, almost daily for a week. I did not make it to their place since they have not called me back. I was more than willing to go - as I went over the hill anyway.

The message I keep leaving is GO! GO! GO! Everything is a GO! from my end.

Not sure what more I can do to help. I've left my cell phone, home phone, and work phones and emailed them several times as well.

Sorry, wish I could do more.

WW

I think your little mishap spooked them :confused: .

The little mishap might have spooked them, but I have the parts that fix that in my posession. Besides, with instructions, my mishap would not have occurred. It only happened because I was guessing at some of the steps, and not paying attention to something important.

I don't think they have much excuse at this point.

WW

Racing season is in full-swing. I'll cut 'em some slack for that. But not a day goes by I don't check this site for the good news that I hope will come soon! Let's all think good thoughts.

Not the best pic...but if you intend to lower her a bit

(note to self, do not wash, clay bar, and wax the car on Monday night only to be caught in a thunderstorm Tuesday afternoon :banghead: )

I also had one of those opportunities to show posi-traction in action, two nice lines all the way through first and into second. I'd guess 50+ ft. or so. No wheel hop. Some days she does, and some days she doesn't. Dry, hot pavement with the GSD3's showing about 40 psi after a drive. This type of fun should be against the law...oh...that's right...it is :D

WW

I'm in for the 500/550.

Maybe next week...
I spoke to GC on Thursday. I was told they were in the process of writing the install instructions and beginning to put some kits together. They made me no guarantee but said, "maybe next week".

I'll post again after talking to them sometime next week.

Crossin my fingers!

I'm crossin' everything I got!

I'm crossin' everything I got!

Thats fine!! just dont hold your breath :tisk:

OK, Boy's it is imminent, kit's will begin to ship soon. In fact my kit is probably shipping today. First they had Dreamin, then wildwhl to beta test the functionality, now they are using me to beta test their kitting, instructions etc... then the pipeline will open. My car will be on jack stands, cradle loose, front shocks etc off when UPS arrives. So no hold up here.

I have just sent the owner the links to become a supporting vendor so no worries on that issue. Keep ur eyes peeled.

I have one thing to say to Dreamin and wildwhl for all the great effort!

:worship: :worship: :worship: :worship: :worship: :worship: :worship: :worship: :worship: :worship:

I didn't say how many times I was going to say it now did I!

Thanks,
rgd

ok thanks

No need to loosen the cradle...just pop the sway bar endlinks and lower, shock bolts, and lower control arm bolts and you're in.

Front you'll need to pull the top control arm assembly to swap a bushing around in there...

Good luck!

WW

OK, Boy's it is imminent, kit's will begin to ship soon. In fact my kit is probably shipping today. First they had Dreamin, then wildwhl to beta test the functionality, now they are using me to beta test their kitting, instructions etc... then the pipeline will open....
Thanks,
rgd

What will the order protocol be? Is this a group buy or do we watch for the green flag and hit the phones?

Thanks!:bouncy:

No need to loosen the cradle...just pop the sway bar endlinks and lower, shock bolts, and lower control arm bolts and you're in.

Front you'll need to pull the top control arm assembly to swap a bushing around in there...

Good luck!

WW


WW, is a spring compressor reqd?

F

What will the order protocol be? Is this a group buy or do we watch for the green flag and hit the phones?

Thanks!:bouncy:

I don't know just yet. I sent the links for them to join the forum today, and he (Jay) said he would have one of his guys figure it all out in a day or two. They are definitely about ready to go full speed ahead. The first production kit did ship today!:highfive:

I will be talking to them on Thursday morning, if there isn't a post from them yet I will ask and report the protocol.

Thanks,

rgd

Spring compressor? I live dangerously, I use a forklift :D

Yes, the factory springs will need to be compressed or use of some other american ingenuity to remove from the assembly. The GC springs don't have this issue as they are shorter and you don't need to preload them while assembly takes place.

I am making one tweak to the kit today :shhh:

WW

well, were waiting....<in Judge Smails-ese>


F

well, were waiting....<in Judge Smails-ese>


FRandy's ready too!!!I need to get those suckers on before it gets up to 1,000 degrees in my garage.:eek:

calm down or GC will call you guys bitches

edit:*whiny bitches

thats mr. Whine E. Beeotch.


F

All v owners seem whiny, but it is really only the rear of the car.
I still want the gain in performance and looks from that drop, is the price still under $600 for the kit??????

Wbbttt

the cash is burning a hole in my pocket......grrrr



F

and the GC kit is burning holes in the corners in my V...sorry you are all waiting so long :nono:

WW

having issues WW?

F

Issues? Only with absurd corner entry and exit speeds :sneaky:

I believe RGD installed his beta kit last week...any news RGD?

I do have some noises up front but believe the Hotchkis bar to possibly be the culprit. If not, I'm clueless, and I know it isn't the coilovers.

WW

Issues? Only with absurd corner entry and exit speeds :sneaky:

I believe RGD installed his beta kit last week...any news RGD?

I do have some noises up front but believe the Hotchkis bar to possibly be the culprit. If not, I'm clueless, and I know it isn't the coilovers.

WW

Sorry, it just sounded as if you were rubbing the wheel wells or some shizzle like that.....Enjoy the carving! :thumbsup:


F

and the GC kit is burning holes in the corners in my V...sorry you are all waiting so long :nono:WW

shizzle my nizzle... no issues with GC kit (and Hotchkis bars) either...

Dreamin-

Which endlinks do you have at this point?

WW

WTF! How did RGD get a Beta kit?

Anyhow, GC needs to get these kits out already. If not, Penske is getting my money. ;)

Did I say RGD? I meant MGD...errr...Sam Adams or somebody :canttalk:

Didn't know I was supposed to stay quiet.

WW

(just checked - Hots bar is in contact with the DRIVER'S side shock as she sits tonight...and that is where all this noise is coming from, NOT the GC kit at all)

Guinness on draft... or Patron Silver... only way to fly....

Z06 endlinks.

Anyhow, GC needs to get these kits out already. If not, Penske is getting my money. ;)

So... in corner #1... we have racer-boy, working on the Penske shocks in his "spare time"... wait till he figures out the top shock mount that Caddy came up with is a 'full floating' design and it's a beeaatch to build a mount that doesn't squeak and rattle like a mo-fo... and the bottom of his shock is wider than the stock shocks and that's exactly where the hotchis sway-bars are hitting the stock shocks... and...and... :canttalk:

And... in corner #2... we have GC... they are within a c*nt's hair of releasing a product that will make V owners sooo happy and put a ton of $$$ in their pockets... but they keep coming up with excuses and dropping the ball...

And let's not forget $500- vs $2000+

Where's my popcorn?!... :D
Sorry... too much honesty... been :alchi:
:kick: :kick:

Dreamin,

Tell us how you really feel.......? LOL

It's kind of hard to justify the extra 1500 dollars for the "name" brand shocks. Especially when most owners will never be able to feel the difference and before you all start flaming me I've been through the shock games with two different manufacturers before both off road and road racing motorcycles. It doesn't cost that !@#$ much to build a shock. It's the supposed R&D that they have done that gets your wallet! :bigroll:

Cmon CG, stop fooking around already....! Theres two guys on the board with your goodies on their cars, and yet you still toy with us.....


F

I'd like to have the GC kit installed before June 22nd track day at Thunderhill. I guess I'll need Z06 endlinks too.

C'MON GC, I WANT MY COILOVERS!:rant2:

Guys...the GC kit sucks...really.






















For everyone else on the road that is :alchi:

WW

I did call yesterday and spoke with Jay at GC. I asked who was in charge of releasing the coilover kit for the CTS-V. He asked, why? I told him because I have $500 ready send hiim for that kit, and there's a 10 page thread of members who want it too. He said to call back in an hour because he was going to make the attempt to sign on with the forum as a sponsor. Once that was done, he would sell me a kit. When I did call back in that hour, he said the paperwork per the forum would not be complete till Tuesday. So I guess we'll wait for that internet forum special sale price until then. ;)

First post: My name is Jay from Ground Control.

Ground Control is officially a supporting vendor now.
Well, actually, my username of "jm3" is a supporting vendor, not actually "Ground Control".....

This is directly related to the fact that I am just NOT one of those people who are real savvy with the soft part of computers. I can repair my laptop (3 hours, not bad!), build my own network out of components, machine C-adillac parts, but I cannot figure out how to change the username.

This now directly relates to the next facts: I type poorly. Some kids in high school took typing (to meet girls) but I took machine shop and "motor+cycle shop". I met girls through alternate methods.:thumbsup:

So, we are happy to answer specific emails, but please do not expect some of those super fast instant messages, or super very fast replies. I spend as much time as possible getty dirty instead of staying clean, which means being away from the computer and away from the phone.

So I will quickly explain some of the delays:

The first "part we are waiting for" was a urethane spacer for the bushing. No problem, we specced everything to fit an existing design from THE major manufacturer of urethane, and then voila! They cannot ship because of huge internal troubles. We had a new design made by another company we deal with. Just takes longer when you have to make molds etc.
2nd delay: redesign a part to make it... I don't want to say fool proof, but "tamper-resistant" is a good choice. Just a method of attaching to the snap ring that is better than the GM setup.
3rd item, based on feedback from beta kits, we are building and including a little tool to help press out the front bushing (necessary for strength). This is actually easy to do with this proper tool.
4th item: we intend to supply a "nivomat spacer", with props to the guy who developed it.
So, depending on various stars aligning, we will be shipping parts next week.

I would only ask that if you have any questions, please email them to "stan@ground-control.com". Stan can help with lots of things, and will run extra technical questions by me.

Thanks, Jay

edit: I know C-adillac is not hyphenated, but I was messing around with tricking the "in message" hyper+links.

YAY!!!!

Welcome!!!! :) :cheers:

I hope this is available next week. If so, can I get the first kit? I'm planning to go to Thunderhill on June 22nd. I'd like to have this on before then. :D

Thanks Jay for posting up.:thumbsup:

Are you guys putting up a group buy thread?We have a list in here somewhere for you guys with our user names.When do you guys want our money?Randy

:welcome:

WW

Welcome Jay, glad to see you chiming in..let us know when the GP is ready.

F

Thanks Jay! My check is on the grid waiting for the green flag.

welcome! I will work on getting your username changed to Ground Control... PM me..

Reed

My loins are getting moist...

Cmon CG, stop fooking around already....! Theres two guys on the board with your goodies on their cars, and yet you still toy with us.....


F

Make that three guys with their goodies. Car #3 is on QA1 shocks too. Which I might add work just great with GC kit 600# and 650# even though I wish I had 700/750.
So now you know!
rgd

First post: My name is Jay from Ground Control.

Ground Control is officially a supporting vendor now.
Well, actually, my username of "jm3" is a supporting vendor, not actually "Ground Control".....

This is directly related to the fact that I am just NOT one of those people who are real savvy with the soft part of computers. I can repair my laptop (3 hours, not bad!), build my own network out of components, machine C-adillac parts, but I cannot figure out how to change the username.

This now directly relates to the next facts: I type poorly. Some kids in high school took typing (to meet girls) but I took machine shop and "motor+cycle shop". I met girls through alternate methods.:thumbsup:

So, we are happy to answer specific emails, but please do not expect some of those super fast instant messages, or super very fast replies. I spend as much time as possible getty dirty instead of staying clean, which means being away from the computer and away from the phone.

So I will quickly explain some of the delays:

The first "part we are waiting for" was a urethane spacer for the bushing. No problem, we specced everything to fit an existing design from THE major manufacturer of urethane, and then voila! They cannot ship because of huge internal troubles. We had a new design made by another company we deal with. Just takes longer when you have to make molds etc.
2nd delay: redesign a part to make it... I don't want to say fool proof, but "tamper-resistant" is a good choice. Just a method of attaching to the snap ring that is better than the GM setup.
3rd item, based on feedback from beta kits, we are building and including a little tool to help press out the front bushing (necessary for strength). This is actually easy to do with this proper tool.
4th item: we intend to supply a "nivomat spacer", with props to the guy who developed it.
So, depending on various stars aligning, we will be shipping parts next week.

I would only ask that if you have any questions, please email them to "stan@ground-control.com". Stan can help with lots of things, and will run extra technical questions by me.

Thanks, Jay

edit: I know C-adillac is not hyphenated, but I was messing around with tricking the "in message" hyper+links.

Thanks Jay...

BTW got my ring from you yesterday, Thanks.

Oh the first thanks is for not making a liar out of me and signing up, FINALLY!!! Lol The kit is awesome I love it, the rest of you guys will too!
But I do have a small modification to your tool to suggest that is great.

I hope this is available next week. If so, can I get the first kit? I'm planning to go to Thunderhill on June 22nd. I'd like to have this on before then. :D

Thanks Jay for posting up.:thumbsup:

Hey Bossplaya,

If you get your kit and time is tight I can help with the install if you want. as you know I have had my shocks on and off at least 10 times maybe more. Hell I have three sets of extra springs to prove it.

Speaking of which, Hey Dreamin...

In for a shortage of jackstands the day these ship :eek:

Hey Bossplaya,

If you get your kit and time is tight I can help with the install if you want. as you know I have had my shocks on and off at least 10 times maybe more. Hell I have three sets of extra springs to prove it.

Speaking of which, Hey Dreamin...

Bossplaya.....:histeric:

You da Man!:thumbsup:

When I do get the kit, I'm going to evaluate the installation instructions. If I plan to install them, I'll hit you up. Also, I'm amazed you went to 600lb front and 650lb rear with your setup.:eek: I might have to take a ride in your car before I purchase them.

His QA1's probably adjust much stiffer than the factory shocks. You'll blow FE4 shocks with 600/650's... not even sure if the FG2 could handle that much spring.

rgd: you have PM

:welcome: Jay!

FE4's and the 500/550 rate are even pushing it, IMHO.

FG2 is purrrrrfecttttt for guys like me at 550/500...but I'm ready to bump it 100#'s on all corners...what's the word RGD?

WW (wish I had an MGD but it is only a Guiness instead :lies: )

need that kit, dammit!


F

FE4's and the 500/550 rate are even pushing it, IMHO.

FG2 is purrrrrfecttttt for guys like me at 550/500...but I'm ready to bump it 100#'s on all corners...what's the word RGD?

WW (wish I had an MGD but it is only a Guiness instead :lies: )

Sorry WW just een so Damn busy. i'll look into it tomorrow/today I should say.
rgd

and another week goes by with no info...........this sucks



F

Yeah it does suck, as I am out of the running.............to little, too late........

I'll have to bail too. Too much other stuff on my plate. Maybe for the best.

Well, I went to get a custom alignment and the shop failed to tell me they didn't have a specific tool to be able to adjust the settings on the car. So now I'm going to wait till I get a coilover kit from somewhere. If it isn't Ground Control, it'll be the Richie Rich Penske version.:banghead:

Hi,my name is Randy,and i'm a whiney B!tch.At first I only whined on weekends,then I began to whine a couple days during the week.Now I find myself whining 24 hous a day about this $hit.Take a deposit already,promise a ship date,get us our coil-over fix dammit!Another week or so and i'm bailen people.

Spoke with Hotchkis today about their end links (p/n 1797 for C5 vettes), and our need for something stout once the GC units ship and we start lowering away. If you check their web, the photo is out of date. The new ones are sealed, high-articulation units with lube fittings and are adjustable. The bolt size however is larger than our bars accomodate so drilling may be involved. They are getting a V in their shop tomorrow. He said they'd check to see what's in their inventory regards an adjustable unit that will bolt right up. I'll post here on results.

Keep the faith, think good thoughts.

It won't be long...you can buy mine with >525 hp (conservative I think), Hotchkis, GC, spare (unpainted) hood, meth kit in box, 9.25" rears, etc.

Love it...hate the dealer...and can't take that abuse anymore. They're telling me 3-4 weeks to replace the rear window, center console, and NAV along with minor body work on the door.

Repeat after me:

LOVE THE CAR

HATE THE SUPPORT NETWORK

LOVE THE CAR

HATE THE SUPPORT NETWORK

Car hauls ass, sticks, gets looks, and make me grin from ear to ear. But I'm now over 50 days of shop time in the last 2.25 years for warranty and another 60+ (add another 28 for this fiasco) days for repairs unrelated. She's bad luck for me.

Must move on.

Wonder when the 505HP SuperV will be out (sans 2 seats) aka C6 Z06...if only.

WW

Speaking of which, if anyone is selling their V with the widened 9.25" wheels, I'd be more than happy to swap out with my stockers. I'd pay for all shipping of course. wink wink nudge nudge.:highfive:

Spoke with Stan at GC today. Friday (6/16) is the next checkpoint date for possible receipt of the last missing part for the kit. He's got my name and number and said he'd call. If I don't hear from him by Friday noon, I'll call myself and post here any update. It's all about setting expectations. He didn't promise they'd have them ready Friday, only that he'll know Friday the status on the part.

I'll check with Hotchkis tomorrow (6/14) afternoon on their end-link results.

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz another week goes by.


F

I guess we're supposed to get an update tomorrow. We'll see..... :(

I guess we're supposed to get an update tomorrow. We'll see..... :(

Ill put that as #5 right after:

1. Check's in the mail
2. I wont jizz in your mouth
3. I love you
4. Dont worry about that rash...


F

Don't shoot the messenger 'K?

Spoke with Stan at GC... we're still 2-3 week out. Problem is at GM. They're supplying this missing part. Otherwise kits are ready.

... and just FYI on spring rates. I asked Stan to find out what stock rates are. What he found shows stock at 400 front and rear. This information may have been posted previously. Thought I'd re-post for those still considering what rate to use as replacement.

Not going to shoot you but if I'm knowledgeable, correct you. :D

Our CTS-V's are 400lb front and 450lb rear.

Florian, go ahead and add #6 decapitate the messenger. :devil:

Hate to salt the wound, but -

Picked up the V from repairs this afternoon (incomplete but I could wait no more). Battery must have gone dead, g-meter reset to zero on both ends.

Flashed in a new, very, very good StealthV tune, and made a few detours on the way home. Hit my favorite corner that I normally pull 55-60 mph and say about .85 peak (this is nearly residential, mind you). Tonight, kicked the ass end out (new tune or time off from the V, not sure).

I didn't take a picture - but 1.17 ------ 1.02 all on a surface street ride home. That's why I bought the car - and GC, FG2, Hotchkis, widened rears, maggie, Rick and Dreamin make it possible.

Spring rate at the moment - 550 front and 500 rear. Remind me, what happens if I bump up the rear rate?

WW

Remind me, what happens if I bump up the rear rate?

WWChildren?

Children?


:histeric:

No, CVP had his tubes tied.

Our CTS-V's are 400lb front and 450lb rear.

Where did you get that from V?

Spring rate at the moment - 550 front and 500 rear. Remind me, what happens if I bump up the rear rate?

WW, quit running your springs backwards... you should be running 500 front / 550 rear... I thought that's how you had them installed...

Increasing rear spring rate will increase oversteer.
Increasing front spring rate will increase understeer.

Dreamin -

My bad - I have them 500/550R - not sure what I was thinking last night. I'm thinking of going up 100#'s though.

WW

I'm thinking of going up 100#'s though.

You're the only guy on the planet w/FG2's and GC's :( So only you can figure this one out...

How are the shocks handling the 500/550s? *Any* floatiness at all? Sudden dips on the road? long swoopy dips in the road? How's rebound over speed-bumps? Tight, a little bounce?

If the shocks feel tight in all these scanario's they can handling more spring... I consider 50# a 'tuning' change... 100# you'll definitely feel! And I wouldn't up the rear rate only... maggie + oversteer = :banghead: Up both front and rear rates... i.e. 550F / 600R or 600F / 650R

P.S. PM me...i'm i Sac this weekend...

Dreamin -

Shocks feel, to my not so trained senses, like they're handling the 500/550's quite well. No bounce. And always tight.

You know me, gotta keep screwing with everything. RIght now though, I do have a touch of oversteer (called right foot) :cookoo:

WW

I didn't take a picture - but 1.17 ------ 1.02 all on a surface street ride home. That's why I bought the car - and GC, FG2, Hotchkis, widened rears, maggie, Rick and Dreamin make it possible.WW
lol

i have the world's most intrusive TC system on a V and hitting .9 scares me and gives me flashbacks of hitting walls

1.17 lol i'll never ever be even close

urby -

a little secret - even you can hit above 1.00 on this particular turn ;)

WW

WW - get that thing on the track at Reno-Fernley next weekend with D and see if the shocks fade with those big springs...

urby -

a little secret - even you can hit above 1.00 on this particular turn ;)

WW
vegas sept 4-9

Dreamin, I thought the spring rates are 400F and 450R? If not, oops. :D

Anyhow, looks like lars on the forums is going to part with some brand new FG2's to Bossplaya. Now I need some coils DAMMIT! Maybe in a month I can get to test them. First I need to get this illness out of the way.

BTW, the other day I tested out my new RT-615 tires. I took a nicely banked right handed on ramp and pulled a 1.09g with stock springs, FE4 shocks, and Hotchkis sways. What a car....... :D

I can't wait any longer. I just forked out 300 bones for a set of H&R Springs and a new set of FG2's from Lars sale. This should satisfy my needs. I want a better stance and slightly stiffer ride. I'll have a review in a few weeks when everything arrives and is installed. ;)

GC lags....

I can't wait any longer. I just forked out 300 bones for a set of H&R Springs and a new set of FG2's from Lars sale. This should satisfy my needs. I want a better stance and slightly stiffer ride. I'll have a review in a few weeks when everything arrives and is installed. ;)

GC lags....

Will the H&R's work with your Asanti's?

I can't wait any longer. I just forked out 300 bones for a set of H&R Springs and a new set of FG2's from Lars sale. This should satisfy my needs. I want a better stance and slightly stiffer ride. I'll have a review in a few weeks when everything arrives and is installed. ;)

GC lags....



Cool news. If everything works out for you I'm sure I will follow that route along with others? If you had not bought the shocks I would have and tried something similar since GC is apparently not serious about doing the kit! Keep us posted with your results?

P.S. Where did you buy your HR springs from and can you give us the spring rates and related specs?

Will the H&R's work with your Asanti's?

I might have an occasional rub with the right rear. That's because I already rubbed there before, very slightly. That happened when I made the trip to San Diego with a spare tire, 50lb craftsman aluminum jack, 70lbs of luggage, and my 70lb son in the right rear seat going 80mph on deep dips and potholes on the road. Asanti uses an aggressive offset to bring the wheels to the fender. Another part of me thinks I won't. The FG2's are going to be firmer and the springs will be too. So I should be good.

Cool news. If everything works out for you I'm sure I will follow that route along with others? If you had not bought the shocks I would have and tried something similar since GC is apparently not serious about doing the kit! Keep us posted with your results?

P.S. Where did you buy your HR springs from and can you give us the spring rates and related specs?

I'll definitely keep you guys posted. I don't know the specs on the h&r's because they won't release that information. However, you can pick them up thru www.tirerack.com (http://www.tirerack.com) for under $300 shipped if you don't have to pay taxes on them. ;)

Ttt.

I'm planning on calling them 6/30. He said 2-3 when we spoke last week. So basically I'm calling every Friday starting next week.

This is almost funny. I orderd H&R's about 5 times and never got them. GC played ball quickly, but are in the same boat - can't get their vendors to supply parts. I've still never actually witnessed a set of H&R springs for the V (base CTS, yes).

If you go H&R I'm sure you'll like it.

The patient will like their GC kit better.

I promise.

WW

Hey, I'm trying to be patient! :rant2:

I might have an occasional rub with the right rear. That's because I already rubbed there before, very slightly. That happened when I made the trip to San Diego with a spare tire, 50lb craftsman aluminum jack, 70lbs of luggage, and my 70lb son in the right rear seat going 80mph on deep dips and potholes on the road. Asanti uses an aggressive offset to bring the wheels to the fender. Another part of me thinks I won't. The FG2's are going to be firmer and the springs will be too. So I should be good.

Good to know... I was curious because I recall Marty (Lasstss) posting a thread sometime ago trying the H&R's with CCW 19x8.5/19x10 and they rubbed too much to be used so he sold them off. I wonder how different the offset is between the Asanti’s and CCW’s. I’d like to run this setup too but I’m running CCW 19x8.5/19x10.

Good to know... I was curious because I recall Marty (Lasstss) posting a thread sometime ago trying the H&R's with CCW 19x8.5/19x10 and they rubbed too much to be used so he sold them off. I wonder how different the offset is between the Asanti’s and CCW’s. I’d like to run this setup too but I’m running CCW 19x8.5/19x10.

I'm really worried that I'll rub with the Asanti's. The offset Asanti uses on their wheels is very aggressive. They push the rim to the very edge of the fender. I'm more worried about the fronts. I'm already running a 235/35/20 in front to clear the car on stock ride height. If I go any smaller tire in front, I'll be undersized.

If it does rub, I'll have to ask myself these questions. Should I sell the Asanti's? Should I replace them with some pefect fitted Fikse or other 18" custom wheels? Should I keep my wheels and patiently wait for GC to come out with their kit? At this point, any of those options sound good to me.

Talked to Stan on Friday. They haven't received the magic part yet. He's going to call GM Monday a.m. to see if they're in-transit yet and will call me back.

Velose... classic dilemma of time or money. Option one you can start on now for $$$, two has the GC wait and no $$$. For me, I'm taking the later. I want to see how many options open up once the kit is in.

I have a set of H&R's for the V. They did not work with my QA1 shocks.
BTW... They have already been sold.
My point, they do exist.


This is almost funny. I orderd H&R's about 5 times and never got them. GC played ball quickly, but are in the same boat - can't get their vendors to supply parts. I've still never actually witnessed a set of H&R springs for the V (base CTS, yes).

If you go H&R I'm sure you'll like it.

The patient will like their GC kit better.

I promise.

WW

rgd -

I know they exist...I guess my point was not clearly made.

EVERY suspension mod for the V has taken a fair amount of patience thus far, except maybe, for the WW spacers and grooved shocks ;)

If only they would have shipped on one of my orders, I would have never gone down the path and ended up with the adjustable Eibachs from GC per Dreamin.

WW

Im losing interest quickly in this kit....took too long.


F

We all are loosing interest, but what other great option do we have,
We need an adjustable coilover that can be made in the spring rate that we want.
This is the solution unless tein decides to make one of their sweet coilover kits for our cars.
I guess it is back to waiting.
I hope the kit comes out, and i still have the car, I bet the moment i decide to switch there is going to be a wave of parts that come out. it always happens O well

Ground control kit for the CTS-V is listed on their web site?


I just checked there web site and it has the kit up on it for 499.00! Did we miss something here? It asks for shock type and spring rate desired? I will try and call in the morning. I bet they are probably closed tomorrow but will still try. Here's the link.


http://www.ground-control-store.com/products/description.php?II=715

I have the H&R Springs installed. The car seems too low for me. On the stock wheels, the car rides fine. Once I installed my 20" Asanti's, I had serious rubbing from the fronts. Now I'm going to do a few tests with the stock wheels and H&R springs. If I rub with the stocks, the h&r springs are coming out. If I don't rub, I need to really think about what means more to me, 20" wheels or springs. I'll post up some pics tomorrow.

OK, so what do I select at GC's website fe4 is that the nivomats? I have a 2004 V.

OK, so what do I select at GC's website fe4 is that the nivomats? I have a 2004 V.

If you have the "standard" shocks for the V then you have the fe4,
If you have the "sport" shocks for the V then you have the fg2 (actually you'll have both since the fg2's are dealer installed and you should have the fe4 shocks they took off laying around your garage.)

Both are nivomats.

Got it and thanks.

Ground control kit for the CTS-V is listed on their web site?


I just checked there web site and it has the kit up on it for 499.00! Did we miss something here? It asks for shock type and spring rate desired? I will try and call in the morning. I bet they are probably closed tomorrow but will still try. Here's the link.


http://www.ground-control-store.com/products/description.php?II=715

Kit is listed but they're not shipping because of the missing part.

That's what I thought. WTF! Hey G.C. can you find another vendor with the part? As big as this country is you mean to tell me a part that's needed can only be sourced from one person/company? :mad:

That's what I thought. WTF! Hey G.C. can you find another vendor with the part? As big as this country is you mean to tell me a part that's needed can only be sourced from one person/company? :mad:

Spoke with GC today. They took your advice and sought an alternate source, one who apparently is coming thru for them. They hope to start receiving the missing item next week. I know... been there, heard that. Let's keep our fingers crossed. If this pans, out maybe they can start shipping the week of the 17th. Check the forum regularly. They will probably post their own thread when availability is certain.

Spoke with GC today. They took your advice and sought an alternate source, one who apparently is coming thru for them. They hope to start receiving the missing item next week. I know... been there, heard that. Let's keep our fingers crossed. If this pans, out maybe they can start shipping the week of the 17th. Check the forum regularly. They will probably post their own thread when availability is certain.

Good news... Will they be putting together a GP? I know at one point there was a lot of talk around it (the begining of this thread).

Good news hopefully? I'll call them Monday and find out when they will actually be ready for shipping! I was hoping to have this done by next weekend,oh well. :alchi:

Good news... Will they be putting together a GP? I know at one point there was a lot of talk around it (the begining of this thread).
There's been no mention of GP lately. That doesn't mean one can't happen. I'll send an email to Stan, see if they have any ideas. Personally, I'd be happy if they'd just ship ASAP. Free shipping for forum members would be a nice touch and easy to administer. A 10% discount would amount to the same thing, but then you have to do math and stuff.

There's been no mention of GP lately. That doesn't mean one can't happen. I'll send an email to Stan, see if they have any ideas. Personally, I'd be happy if they'd just ship ASAP. Free shipping for forum members would be a nice touch and easy to administer. A 10% discount would amount to the same thing, but then you have to do math and stuff.

Thanks for the update! Some form of a GP or discount would be a nice way of releasing the product to the community.

Are there any news on the kit????

I spoke with Jay yesterday and he said hopefully "any day now". He also said that the kit has been ready and works with aftermarket shocks, which they are looking into also. The kit has to have the bushing in order to work with our "stock shocks" and that's what they are waiting on! Stand by as we have been. I know I'm going to wait so I can do it right the first time. I want the adjustability of the kit which no other kit has as of yet?

Got an email from Stan today. I think we will get word tomorrow (Wed. 7/12) or the next day on firm ship dates. They are taking a look at what (if any) discount they can offer. Watch this thread or look for a new one direct from GC. Happy Happy Joy Joy!

BBC - Mallet advertises a coil over option to their Penske shock-equipped suspension packages. That is the only other C-over offering widely available that I know of.

I spoke with Jay yesterday and he said hopefully "any day now". He also said that the kit has been ready and works with aftermarket shocks, which they are looking into also. The kit has to have the bushing in order to work with our "stock shocks" and that's what they are waiting on! Stand by as we have been. I know I'm going to wait so I can do it right the first time. I want the adjustability of the kit which no other kit has as of yet?

There is another kit that has this adjustability and more. However, it's going to cost you almost $4,000.

GC kit is the way to go bang for your buck, like the V. :D

Jay called me a few weeks ago with Qs on the shock p/n's, shock mount, etc... So I think it is the spacers they have left to complete.

For those of you who already have WW spacers... you could call Jay or Stan and tell them you want to buy the kit w/o the spacers.

Maybe they should get in touch with WW and buy the spacers from him. Supplier problem solved. ;)

Unless they're doing something very trick with the spacers, I find it hard to believe that is the hold up.

An hour or two on a cnc mill or router and hundreds could be ready.

In fairness, though, the WW spacer mod can most certainly be improved upon.

WW

-FLASH-
Notification from UPS received
Ground Control has shipped
(Or billed at least, technically it may not be on the truck just yet according to UPS-ese)
ETA 7/18
(That's a pretty hopeful sign that it is in fact on a truck since today is the 17th and Shingle Springs is about 120 miles away.)

Calicadi household filled with boisterous cheers.
Neighbors complaining.
:rolling: :excited: :wes: :band: :banana:
Film at eleven.

Let us know when you get it..

Got the kit :bouncy:

Missing parts :crybaby:

Email sent to GC.:rant2:

There was one plastic bag of small parts containing one each of the urethane bushing, magic spacer and rubber washer for the rear-upper mount assembly. Need two of each of course to do both sides. Also, the diagram for the front-upper assembly calls for a GC supplied bump-stop (two total, one for each side). Got none of those bad boyz.

Everything else was there and lookin' good. Hopefully they'll rectalfy the sitsheeashun toots sweet.

So does this mean GC will be posting in here soon?Is there a gp in the works?Are they signing up as a supporting vendor?The fact that gc is not posting is pissing me off.You guys who have been doing their work on this,thank you.I'm not buying their kit unless they sign on here,period!This has drug -out so fn long now

Close-up pics of the magic spacers please :D

WW

So does this mean GC will be posting in here soon?Is there a gp in the works?Are they signing up as a supporting vendor?The fact that gc is not posting is pissing me off.You guys who have been doing their work on this,thank you.I'm not buying their kit unless they sign on here,period!This has drug -out so fn long now

They are already a supporting vendor... dont know the answers to your other questions :(

Ok, here is how the Cadillac Forums promotional coupon works!

You go to the Ground Control Suspension website, www.groundcontrolstore.com. You can find the Cadillac CTS-V kit several ways; the easiest is to search for CTS-V in the upper left search field.
Then, after selecting spring rates and shock types, you are allowed to check out and buy the kit!

You will have to fill out the entire name and address stuff before you will have an opportunity to enter the coupon code. Have faith, it may seem like you are going to get charged, but right before the end of the secure server process, you will be asked if you have a code. The Cadillac Forums promotional code is “GCCTSV” This brings the price down to $449. After this is when you will give the final “okay” to make the purchase.

This code is not publicized anywhere but here and now. It is the only way I can reward the patience of the users of this forum. There is a limit of 40, but if they go fast, we will do it again.

In the spring choice menu, there is an option for us to call you to discuss the best rates for you, we will call you on the next weekday and quickly discuss your options.

Thanks again to the Cadillac Forum members who helped us develop this kit.

Jay and Stan

Thanks Jay!:thumbsup:

I'll be calling you in the morning for spring rate questions and ordering. :D

Randy has to wait a day for coupon offer to start.

Close-up pics of the magic spacers please :D

WW

Here ya go. About 1" OD, 5/8" ID, and 1/2" height.

Oh and Post Script on missing parts. Got a phone call from Stan and the confirm from UPS. Missing items on the way. Should arrive tomorrow. Many apologies from GC staff. No big deal to me. Can't install 'till next weekend anyway. So as Shakespere says... all's well that ends well. Next stops; Chevy dealer for Z06 endlinks, then installer.

Thanks CC!

WW

Are we still in agreement on the 500/550 for daily drivers with fe4 and fe2?

The four spring choices are -

Street Performance
Hot Rod Caddy (+10%)
Track Day/AutoX (+25%)
Call...What do the four choices mean in lbs/in?

400/400 stock?
450/500?
500/550?
customWhen I was professionally building cars and racing, our chassis setup baseline was to use the lightest spring rate we could to the point of preventing the chassis from bottoming out on the particular track. Let the shocks with proper comp/rebound and sway bars do their thing to maintain the tire contact patch. Fine tune the balance with a little wedge or lead weight positioning.

The higher +50 lb/in rear rate I can see to free up the balance but stepping up 100 lb/in across the board from there I need help with to make the spring choice. Since making sparks with the frame rails hasn't been a problem on the V, what is the advantage for a V going to the higher spring rates beside making the chassis more susceptible to surface imperfections? Seems like going with a light(er) combo of springs (400/450 or 350/400), FG2 shocks (revalve?) and custom (or adjustable/interchangeable) sway bars would be a better ulitmate path to get that last 10% of suspension performance over factory?

If the higher +100 (500/550) package is for roll control, wouldn't it be better to focus on the shocks and bars for that and use a lighter spring package to better maintain ride quality and putting the power to the ground with 450+ hp at the rear wheels? To come up with the 500/550 were the suspension/FG2 shocks dyno tested or is it an experienced ballpark with one customer, Wildwhl, w/ a Maggie and wider than stock rear wheels/tires saying "...handling...quite well."? :confused:

Springs are cost effective, maybe I'll just order a bunch of differet rates. :thumbsup:

Here is some info, just to make it more complicated:

The springs for "street performance" and "hot_rod" were not priority selected for handling specifically. It is very easy to make the Caddy handle great, but not ride good. Very very easy in fact. So, within the big window of springs that make the CTS-V handle better, we gravitated toward the pairs that gave the best ride by keeping pitch to the absolute minimum.

This is the "ride frequency" that you read about. So... you type that phrase into google, and see a bunch of "should be x.x Hz" and "optimal". Well guess what? All that crap goes out the wiindow when you actually drive instead of fiddling with your laptop.

That is the reason for our changing springs so many times on Zeemers car, and ending up completely different from where we anticipated. The inner ear is mightier than the silicon chip!

Not the first time that has happened, and certainly won't be the last.

The Track day /Auto-x kit is prioritized for handling over ride incidentally.

disclaimer: intentional spelling misatakes are to avoid embedded links.

You sold me - Dreamin and GC know more about making a V handle better than I do.

One big dog kit ordered. :)

Would there be any benefit for drag racing with this kit? i.e. weight transfer from front to rear? If so what spring rate.
OK guys...I know....try the curves yada yada but I really would like some hep with the launch

My car has the stock shocks but CCW, 9.5 inch wheels, would ths have any impact on the kit I order?

The four spring choices are -

Street Performance
Hot Rod Caddy (+10%)
Track Day/AutoX (+25%)
Call...What do the four choices mean in lbs/in?

400/400 stock?
450/500?
500/550?
customWhen I was professionally building cars and racing, our chassis setup baseline was to use the lightest spring rate we could to the point of preventing the chassis from bottoming out on the particular track. Let the shocks with proper comp/rebound and sway bars do their thing to maintain the tire contact patch. Fine tune the balance with a little wedge or lead weight positioning.

The higher +50 lb/in rear rate I can see to free up the balance but stepping up 100 lb/in across the board from there I need help with to make the spring choice. Since making sparks with the frame rails hasn't been a problem on the V, what is the advantage for a V going to the higher spring rates beside making the chassis more susceptible to surface imperfections? Seems like going with a light(er) combo of springs (400/450 or 350/400), FG2 shocks (revalve?) and custom (or adjustable/interchangeable) sway bars would be a better ulitmate path to get that last 10% of suspension performance over factory?

If the higher +100 (500/550) package is for roll control, wouldn't it be better to focus on the shocks and bars for that and use a lighter spring package to better maintain ride quality and putting the power to the ground with 450+ hp at the rear wheels? To come up with the 500/550 were the suspension/FG2 shocks dyno tested or is it an experienced ballpark with one customer, Wildwhl, w/ a Maggie and wider than stock rear wheels/tires saying "...handling...quite well."? :confused:

Springs are cost effective, maybe I'll just order a bunch of differet rates. :thumbsup:

While I can't answer all your questions, I do want to point out that:

I tried the 500/550 rates with both FG2 and FE4 shocks, with both stock width tires and widened rears (GSD3's) as well as winter runflats. The 500/550 were much, much better with the FG2's than the stock springs, however, with the FE4's (or the supposed FE4's that are still in question) the match wasn't nearly as good.

I suspect slightly lighter rates or heavier rates could be more optimum for certain situations, but I'll rely on the experts and the rest of this forum to figure that out. I've had the suspension out of my car somewhere in the neighborhood of 50 times now, without a lift, or airtools (usually). I'm leaving it alone :thumbsup:

Just my .02

WW

so just when i thought i was gonna die if this kit never came out, I find myself more confused about what spring setup to go with and cant order! I thought everyone was set on the 500/550 and now there seems to be lots of questions and everybody who was interested before is all hush hush now. whats the deal? I'm counting on the experts and testers for some real life answers here. I have fe4's and i dont want to sacrifice handling most importantly. Second i dont want to sacrifice ride quality much. HELP!:worship:

It's a hard driven daily driver with twisties and straights.

Dreamin can answer the FE4 question with certainty.

WW

so just when i thought i was gonna die if this kit never came out, I find myself more confused about what spring setup to go with and cant order! I thought everyone was set on the 500/550 and now there seems to be lots of questions and everybody who was interested before is all hush hush now. whats the deal? I'm counting on the experts and testers for some real life answers here. I have fe4's and i dont want to sacrifice handling most importantly. Second i dont want to sacrifice ride quality much. HELP!:worship:

It's a hard driven daily driver with twisties and straights.
Of course mine is not installed yet but here's my rational on rate choice and thoughts for your decision. The +100 makes sense to me in order to optimize AutoX and Track Day action. I sacrificed some ride smoothness to go with the FG2s and am willing to sacrifice slightly more to gain superior stability in high performance situations. Being able to lower the car for a lower center of gravity is also a big reason I'm picking up the kit, regardless the spring rate.

If you enjoy the ride quality of the FE4s and are looking primarily to lower the stance and slightly tighten the feel, I'd buy the kit and go with the 400/450 rate. Drive it for a year to understand the difference in handling through all four seasons. After that, if you think you could tolerate more stiffness (go ahead Florian, I gave you another great straight line!) buy the 500/550 set. The springs themselves are relatively inexpensive (see Stealth V comment above). And you could probably sell the 400/450 set here on the forum if you decide the stiffer set suits you best.

if you think you could tolerate more stiffness (go ahead Florian, I gave you another great straight line!)

Too easy....but thanks for the softball! BTW, Ill be ordering up next week.....

ALL GOOD!


F

I just talked to Stan and I'm ordering my springs today, Stan was a lot of help and I can't wait to get my kit. I'm going with the 500/550 or street performance.

so wait, for fe4's, Daily driver and increased performance you guys are recommending??????????

let me know, i wouldn't mind same ride quality with 1.2" lower.

Ordered,I hope it will be worth the wait.

whats the wait time on these?????

so wait, for fe4's, Daily driver and increased performance you guys are recommending??????????

let me know, i wouldn't mind same ride quality with 1.2" lower.
Based on WW's experimentation, sounds like you can order the kit with no springs, use your stockers and just lower the ride height. I think Dreamin' has the FE4 experience, he needs to kibitz here. Check with GC and make sure you can run the stockers on their adjustment collars.

What kind of tires are you running and do you have the Hotchkis anti-roll?

For the gurus... I'm running CCW SP600 19x10 in the rears, any issues with this kit and lowering?

Thanks!!!

Calicadi -

you CANNOT, repeat CANNOT, use the stock springs with these collars - different ID/OD and length.

WW

I would never think about use the springs that are currently on, I do want to retain ride quality if it stiffens up 20 30% o well as long as the handling gets better.
I also plan to put on the swaybars at the same time the gc kit goes on.
I have stockers with 275's on the rear, what are the sprng rate suggestions guys?????

I wish I could be more helpful to those with questions but my install is a week a way. Only two (that I know of on this forum) had GC prototypes and/or conducted their own experiments. There just isn't a broad spectrum of experience and data yet. We are on the cutting edge here.

Read posts 200 and 205 in this thread.
Call Ground Control.
Google suspension setups and check other performance car boards.

I think the consensus now is running with FE4s will be better off in the under 500 range and FG2s can take more spring. Regards lowering, we need to get data on optimum lowering settings from those with stock and those with non-stock rim and tire combos. We need more data points but won't get them 'til more are installed.

Valid points, CC.

I can tell you that when I throw 400 lbs of human in the back seat, I do rub on the passenger rear over large bumps, UNTIL, I've driven a few blocks (Nivomats at work?). I have the car quite low, and also have 275's on widened rears with spacers. Stock tire sizes on stock rims this wouldn't be an issue.

Can't wait to hear more reviews on these. I know how well I thought my car was riding with slightly cut rear springs and grooved front shocks for lowering. The spring rates in the GC kit are much better up front, and seem to be in the rear as well. That with the added adjustability makes it a perfect solution, IMHO.

WW

T/J on

"Who needs a MAP sensor on a supercharged LS6 anyway."

Only those with a 2 or 3 bar tune? Alky injection?

I don't know...I probably don't.

T/J off

Well, I put in my order for the track/auto-x setup. I assume this is the 500F/550R setup. I did note that is the spring rates I wanted in the notes on the order, but I was wondering if anyone knew for sure...

With a start of only 40 orders, I just went ahead and ordered so that I wouldn't miss out.

Well, I put in my order for the track/auto-x setup. I assume this is the 500F/550R setup. I did note that is the spring rates I wanted in the notes on the order, but I was wondering if anyone knew for sure...

500/550 is 'street performance'. That is the spring rate I wanted, so I called GC yesterday to make sure.

Well, unfortunately, I was at a conference from Friday through Sunday and my home computer crapped the bed Thursday. So I scrambled at lunchtime on my laptop to order. If I wasn't rushing, I would've called myself. Hopefully, somone over there reads the comments box and won't send me the uber-stiff, innard rattling springs...

Well, I was happy to receive a call from Ground Control today. They wanted to make sure I got the springs I wanted. I almost decided to try the 600/650 because of positive reviews they've gotten from them. But since it will still be driven often on bumpy roads and such, I'm sticking with the 500/550 setup. I should be getting them this week. :bouncy:

I think it is intereting that they are getting the initial view that stiffer is better as far as handling goes. Probably shows that we don't have enough bar/shock. In any balanced race car, you want more grip.....softer.....to an extent of course. I know open wheel cars like Indy Lights were running under 150lb springs at the end there and the Nextel Cup cars are under 500 pounds in the front pretty consistently now.

I had similar thoughts. Wanted the stiffest springs necessary to achieve the greatest amount of grip, balance, and control - not stiff just for the sake of stiff; i.e., properly tuned suspension.

I wanted the greatest grip possible (nicely strapped down and hugging the road), but didn't want the car to be skittish/nervous over rougher roads that exist in the real world - like taking a turn at speed and get thrown off the road because of a pebble, ya'know.

When I spoke with Ground Control, they assured me that this was not the case and that grip would be further enhanced with the 600/650 set up - not skittish/nervous.

So, that's what I went with. It's been a week and a day now, and I think I should be receiving them today. Whoopee!

I had similar thoughts. Wanted the stiffest springs necessary to achieve the greatest amount of grip, balance, and control - not stiff just for the sake of stiff; i.e., properly tuned suspension.

I wanted the greatest grip possible (nicely strapped down and hugging the road), but didn't want the car to be skittish/nervous over rougher roads that exist in the real world - like taking a turn at speed and get thrown off the road because of a pebble, ya'know.

When I spoke with Ground Control, they assured me that this was not the case and that grip would be further enhanced with the 600/650 set up - not skittish/nervous.

So, that's what I went with. It's been a week and a day now, and I think I should be receiving them today. Whoopee!Hey, let us know how that turns out. The guys at GC were hinting that I really may like 600/650 but with so much positive feedback on the 500/550, I chickened out. If 600/650 gets rave reviews, maybe I'll get those springs too.

Anybody who is undecided between 500/550 or 600/650 get both springs from GC. :thumbsup:

Yeah, same here. I figured, if it was not to my liking, I could just pick up another set of springs. But I have a feeling I'm gonna like 'em - I hope. We'll see.

Will definitely share my thoughts on them as soon as they're on, but I don't know when I'll get to the install. Hopefully soon!:excited:

Dreamin can answer the FE4 question with certainty.
WW

You dont want to go higher than 500/550 with the FE4... that's as stiff as they'll handle... My car already feels just a hair 'underdamped' with that much spring.

With FG2's the 600/650 looks like it works, but if you're concern about ride, go with 500/550.

I'll ask GC what spring rates the "Street Perf" vs. "Hot rod" vs. "track-day" equate to...

Would there be any benefit for drag racing with this kit? i.e. weight transfer from front to rear? If so what spring rate.
OK guys...I know....try the curves yada yada but I really would like some hep with the launch

No, these may hurt your launch a bit... For maximum bite at launch, you want all of the car's weight to transfer to the rear wheels. Thus, you want nice, soft springs that allow the rear to "squat down" and take the weight.

But maybe you could get a second set of soft rear springs and swap them in at the drag strip... it's very easy to do.

Good points, Dreamin.

The rears can be swapped in <30 minutes if you're determined.

WW

Any idea what shocks or springs would do that? I think the Nivomats (self leveling) hurt the launch. I have FG2's on the car and the stockers in the basement.

Any idea what shocks or springs would do that? I think the Nivomats (self leveling) hurt the launch. I have FG2's on the car and the stockers in the basement.

Springs, we're talking about GC kit... and swapping rear springs for drag racing.

For shock, the load leveling should hurt the launch... they dont react that fast. What could be hurting is that they're valved pretty stiff... you want soft shocks for drag racing, again to get the rear to squat (helping transfer the weight to the rear quickly)... Unless you're willing to go with dedicated drag shocks... I dont think FE4 vs. FG2 are going to make a big difference...

If you enjoy the ride quality of the FE4s and are looking primarily to lower the stance and slightly tighten the feel, I'd buy the kit and go with the 400/450 rate. Drive it for a year to understand the difference in handling through all four seasons. After that, if you think you could tolerate more stiffness (go ahead Florian, I gave you another great straight line!) buy the 500/550 set.

There isn't enough travel in the front suspension to go softer than 500F... I'm pretty sure the "Street Perf" is 500/550... and the "Hot rod" / "track-day" are stiffer... but i'll check w/GC next week.

The springs themselves are relatively inexpensive (see Stealth V comment above).

The springs can be found for $50 each... I think GC sells them for close to that ($60?)

When I spoke with Ground Control, they assured me that this was not the case and that grip would be further enhanced with the 600/650 set up - not skittish/nervous.

Yep, It's a heavy car... 600/650 wont make it skittish... but you'll want FG2s...

I think it is intereting that they are getting the initial view that stiffer is better as far as handling goes. Probably shows that we don't have enough bar/shock. In any balanced race car, you want more grip.....softer.....to an extent of course. I know open wheel cars like Indy Lights were running under 150lb springs at the end there

Cuz Indy Lights weigh <1500 lbs.

I would never think about use the springs that are currently on, I do want to retain ride quality if it stiffens up 20 30% o well as long as the handling gets better.
I also plan to put on the swaybars at the same time the gc kit goes on.
I have stockers with 275's on the rear, what are the sprng rate suggestions guys?????

Rear tires aren't the deciding factor... shocks are... as posted above FE4/FG2 work great with 500/550... FG2 will handle stiffer spring rates.

Springs, we're talking about GC kit... and swapping rear springs for drag racing.

For shock, the load leveling should hurt the launch... they dont react that fast. What could be hurting is that they're valved pretty stiff... you want soft shocks for drag racing, again to get the rear to squat (helping transfer the weight to the rear quickly)... Unless you're willing to go with dedicated drag shocks... I dont think FE4