Where is all the cool stuff?

TotalControl · Post by **TotalControl** » Tue Aug 13, 2013 8:21 pm

So you go on eBay.co.uk and have a search for aftermarket parts, like you do.

Problem is, all of the good stuff isn't in the UK. I was after a decently priced (very subjective, I know) ARB/Sway bar. Purchased one and paid outright. I receive a call from EuroPerformance today stating the part is not for the BB4 but is for the BA8 and they've cancelled the transaction. Great.

I can't find any other for the same price here. However, when I sniff around the US site, there are plenty of parts. And dirt cheap with lots of choice.

I really want a rear tie bar, ARB and a front brace. Can I get them for the same price as the US? No chance. Why? The shipping costs are phenomenal!

I think a Megan racing tie bar would look quite nice, and for circa £35 it's definitely worth it. But wait, shipping will cost you a mortgage.

Variety is the spice of life, but it looks like a right Whales gentleman's sausage here at present with custom work being the only decent way of getting it.

It got me thinking, is there anyone who could maybe organise a group buy for stuff like this so that we can at least have some flavour in our choices of parts? Or even if I can buy from reputable sources outside the UK and not get anally raped for shipping?

Post by **Donald** » Tue Aug 13, 2013 8:47 pm

Is there actually any difference between the BA8/BB4?

Perhaps someone on here can confirm.

Post by **Ammo** » Tue Aug 13, 2013 8:59 pm

BA8 is the 2.2 Non Vtec without 4ws, BB4 is the 2.2 Vtec without 4ws

ALL suspension parts are interchangeable

TBH I'm not sure if the ARB even differs from a 4ws model to a non 4ws, but that would have to be confirmed

TotalControl · Post by **TotalControl** » Tue Aug 13, 2013 9:05 pm

You're shitting me? They're the same?? FML. I could have had it.

If they are the same, that would be a start. Then I can call the little todger tomorrow and tell him to get me one over ASAP.

I need this confirmed...

Post by **Ammo** » Tue Aug 13, 2013 9:08 pm

100% the same mate even the 2L rear end is the same and even 5g ARB's might fit (They use the same suspension)

judderod · Post by **judderod** » Tue Aug 13, 2013 9:21 pm

I could be completely wrong but for some reason I think 4WS ARB's are different, I think they have a lot more bends/kinkiness as they wrap around the 4WS motor assembly.

TotalControl · Post by **TotalControl** » Tue Aug 13, 2013 9:39 pm

Not sure on the BA8 specs so that needs to be confirmed but I'll trust Ammo's judgement for the time being as he sounds confident enough about it. My BB4 is 2WS so I should be OK. I'll call the guy tomorrow and see if I can get one ordered up (funds willing).

Please also continue bitching about the lack of parts and/or inform of anyone who is good at importing some of these rarities over.

Post by **NafemanNathan** » Tue Aug 13, 2013 9:44 pm

BA8 anti-roll bar will definitely fit a BB4 yes.

I arranged a group buy a short while ago for Innovative engine mounts and traction bars. Due to the size and weights of traction bars shipping individually would be a killer, but as we all had them shipped together (5 traction bars and 10 lots of mounts), we all saved pretty much the shipping costs as Scott at H-Tune was able to give us discount as well as we bought in bulk

As I've said before, he's your man for stuff from the States. The only thing I'm aware he can't get it OBX stuff.

Post by **Ammo** » Tue Aug 13, 2013 9:47 pm

The BA8 is also a straight swap to drop in a Vtec engine from a BB4 you just need the engine loom and the ECU, the loom from the engine bay to the ECU is the same and it even has the extra connector for the Vtec signal in it

I converted one to a Vtec many moons ago

TotalControl · Post by **TotalControl** » Tue Aug 13, 2013 9:51 pm

Thank you NN. Informative.

I had a look at H-Tunes thread and it seemed pretty dry, so I assumed offers were few and far between.

I'll probably start a thread on there in the near future to see if anything comes about for smaller purchases.

In regards to the ARB, I will have to call EuroPerformance tomorrow. I think I deserve a discount for being messed about.

Are there any places I'm missing to get the cheapest deals with regards to aftermarket parts? Some saving is better than none. I think the ARB with EP cost about £160 with delivery. The only other place I know of is LarkSpeed for cheap BC coilovers at £622.

Edit - I've heard OBX stuff is poo so no big loss.