Hi all, I currently have a 92 Sidekick but am looking to upgrade to a 1999+ Vitara for a bit of comfort...  I have a few questions that I haven't been able to easily find answers to:

1. Can I use 1st Gen auto hubs?  I saw that stock the hubs are always locked causing the front CVs to drag even while in 2wd.  And I don't like manual hubs because it gets cold in the winter...

2. Does the hagan widening mod work on 2nd Gens?

3. Does anyone sell just the front differntial drop brackets?

4. Is the 2.0 as reliable as the ol' 1.6s it replaces?  The Vitara I have in my sights is a 99 4 door 5 spd 2.0

5. Why does the rear use a 5 link setup?  Does it need the upper 2 links?


Thanks,
-Chad

I don't know the answers to all of your questions but here's what I've got:

2. No

4. 2.0 is very reliable with the exception of the timing chain/guides.  They will likely need replacing before the rest of the motor wears out.  It is cheap enough if you can do it yourself.  I'm doing mine this weekend and the motor is at 147k miles.  You'll get plenty of warning that they are wearing out.

5. I'm not exactly sure why suzuki went with the five link, but I would guess it has to do with better ride and handling.  You do need the upper two links otherwise your axle will rotate back and the diff will be trying to point up.

#1 yes
#3 bits 4 vits has them but they are 110 English pounds about  $155 US.
http://www.bits4vits.co.uk/store/VITARA-/-X90/Front-Axle-Drop-Brackets/prod_18.html

|removethispart|@ Frank84, thanks, yeah I guess I forgot the 2nd gen uses a panhard instead of the rear a-arm to keep the axle in place, although my FJ80 front axle has a 3 link with a panhard, but the lower links have two bolt points to the axle.  Also I'll have to look at that timing chain, the one I'm looking at buying has 150k miles.

|removethispart|@ Trackerprts, I had seen that link at bits4vits but I believe that drop bracket is for 1st gens...  It doesn't look at all like the drop brackets included in the 2nd gen Calmini kit pictures, looks more like the 1st gen.

Also, I've read a bit about the 2nd gens rack & pinion steering not being as forgiving of suspension lifts, but I have been unable to read much on why, and what the remedy is.  I've seen that Calmini in their kit provides extended tie rods...

Thanks guys,
-Chad

The timing chain is only going to be a problem is the engine has not been properly maintained - regular oil & filter changes and the use of the correct grade of oil is all it needs.

Start the engine from cold - leave it overnight if possible - and listen to it for the first few seconds after it starts - if the adjusters/chain/tensioners are on their way out, you'll hear them rattling.