Sway bars-Strano, UMI, etc

[vetwnab]

Ordering some suspension parts tomorrow and can't decide on sway bars. Getting SFCs and adj TA from Founders, but can't decide on sway bars right now. Car is just a fun weekend toy that I want to push a little. I know that I need to change struts/shocks/springs sometime (currently have SLP take offs and Intrax springs). Which sway bars would you guys recommend. Summit has free shipping and handling right now. UMI solids are $349 shipped from them. Stranos are $369 plus shipping for their Hollow bars. Reading on the net, everyone swears by the Strano bars. Stranos are about 15lbs lighter. Need opinions, which ones do I order???

[jlo]

I would go Strano. He races these car so I'm sure he has an idea of what these cars like.

[Spartan7]

I spent the few bucks extra for the Stranos just for the weight savings, and I can assure you they are very close to stock in weight.

[Injuneer]

Just keep in mind.... if two bars are the same diameter and dimensionally similar (lever arm), and one is hollow, the hollow bar will not be as stiff as the solid bar. You have to bump up the diameter to get the same stiffness. The exception would be if they used a material with a higher modulus of elasticity. Chrome moly 2.5 to 9% chrome), for example, has a slightly higher modulus than carbon steel. You can save weight with a hollow bar, even if it's a larger diameter.

[vetwnab]

Thanks guys. Injuneer, with that thinking, Strano's are 35mm front/22mm rear hollow bars. UMI has 35/22 solid bars. BMR has 35/25 solids. I've read several threads where guys are saying that the BMR rear bar is too large and the car pushes in the corners. Which one would you go with?? Everyone swears by the Strano's but just want to make sure they aren't just internet leg humpers before I drop $400.

[Injuneer]

I'm not in a position to recommend a choice. I run a 1-5/16" solid chrome moly drag-style bar in the back, and nothing in the front. It's great for straight lines... not much for going around corners. I would listen to an experienced auto-x person, like MeanTA. The question is "how much stiffness is enough"? I don't know the answer. I do notice that Strano actually quotes numbers for the stiffness of his bars.

[vetwnab]

Thanks everyone for your input. Strano's ordered this morning.