As the first step in changing the suspension, I've started with the ABS
unit. As I want to use 16" front wheels, I'm coming close to the edge
of what the standard ABS unit can handle. According to one of the makers
of the standard ABS unit it has a 5% tollerance in wheel size. When
using 16" wheels it is advisable to change over to an other ABS unit. This new unit is used in the VXR and the new Elise 111R. Next to
supporting smaller front wheels, this unit allows for more slip on the
wheels. Unfortunatly Opel couldn't get it 100% clear if this unit would work in
a normal Speedster. So I took the gamble and ordered the unit. I was
amazed to hear that it was in only 2 days after ordering. img  The package contains: - 1 ABS Unit
- set of new bolts
- rubber seals
Funny detail is that the label of the ABS unit shows the wrong sizes for
the front wheels of the VXR. On the unit it says 195/45/R16 and it
should be 195/50/R16.  Fitting the unit was pretty simple. Remove the connector from the unit.  Remove the computer unit from the hydraulic unit.  After that the new computer with new rubber seals can be placed on the
hydraulic unit and the connector can be replaced.  After turning on the ignition the ABS light didn't remain on, like when
upgrading a normal unit. We tried to check the unit with the Tech 2.  But that didn't work. The Tech 2 can't communicate with this unit. When testdriving with the new unit (on original wheels and tires) the
ABS unit seems to work fine. No problems, no ABS lights, more slip on
the wheels and quicker shut off of the ABS unit. In the end I drove with
this unit on the standard wheels for over a month without problems. Information from Opel learns that this unit can't be checked by the
Tech 2 unit. They are looking into adding software to the Tech 2 in
England to be able to check the VXR's that standard use this unit. If
the software will ever make its way to the Netherlands is unlikely. But
it is probable that a Lotus dealer will be able to read this unit with
their computer. |