First timer seeking information and tips

[skywalkerva]

Wats sup Mazda lovers this is my first time on the site, I have a 99 Mazda protege dx 5 speed Ijust got a good job at Verizon and I'm looking to do some mods to my car starting with rear suspension I would really appreciated if someone would give some tips

[skywalkerva]

Idk y the angry face came up

[goldstar]

Welcome to CP.

As a start, check out the 3rd Generation Mazda Protege / Familia (1999-2003) section of our Forum.

Happy Motoring!

[skywalkerva]

OK thanks can I bounce some ideas off of u. For the car if possible

[goldstar]

Sure, I'll be glad to help if I can. You'll also find many other knowledgeable members of our forum whom I'm sure could help you, as well.

Happy Motoring!

[skywalkerva]

I want to make my mazda a really good 5 speed with some speed with it, where would u start with

[goldstar]

Do you have the 1.6 L or 1.8 L engine? With the 1.6 L engine there isn't much that can be done to increase its power significantly in normally aspirated form. The addition of a freer-flowing intake and exhaust system and possibly replacing the stock exhaust manifold with a header would give some added power but I'd guess no more than 10 to 15 BHP max, at best. It's also possible to swap your engine for an '01-'03 2.0 L engine which will give more power stock than could be obtained by modding your present engine as above. You would be somewhat better off if you have a 1.8 L engine as you're starting with more but, again, nothing really significant. Short of an engine swap, the only way to substantially increase the power output is to turbo your engine. You have to decide your ultimate power goal and how far you're willing to go to achieve it.

Assuming that your engine is in good shape, replacing your spark plugs with iridium/platinum types, checking your plug wires to ensure their resistance is within factory specs (and replacing them with Magnecors or NGKs if they're not), and switching to a good synthetic engine and transmission oil will at least allow your stock engine to be all that it can be, without going overboard.

Happy Motoring!

[goldstar]

Apart from power upgrades, suspension mods will certainly add to overall driving enjoyment. Stock, these cars handle well (assuming all suspension components and tires are in good shape) but they can be made to handle even better without too much effort. Replace the springs, shocks and stabilizer bars with aftermarket components and go to alloy wheels with wider tread, lower profile performance tires (maintaining the same wheel/tire o.d.). With a stock engine, your car won't be any faster in a straight line but it will be noticeably faster in the twisties.

Happy Motoring!

[Turpro]

Suspension should always come first. If its a 1.6 there was a member that boosted one a while back. Made over 200 HP. In a fwd econobox that feels good driving .