I have a '01 Carrera 4. Lately, the suspension has been making a hollow clunk/rattle sound as I go over bumps in the road. I've also noticed that if I am accelerating hard while turning, the rear suspension feels like it is hopping or vibrating. My conclusion is that the shocks are worn.

My solution was to order a M030 suspension kit for my 2001 Carrera 4. I was going to order from Carnewal, unless anyone knows of a better source. I'd love to get a PSS10 setup, but I don't track the car, and probably would never touch the adjustments after getting it set initially.

While doing research, I've also noticed some people saying that the strut mounts should be replaced while you're in there doing the work.

Do I go for the whole strut mount (IE, http://www.suncoastparts.com/product...=996Suspension), or do I just need the mount bearing (http://www.suncoastparts.com/product...96Suspension)? Should I do front and rear strut mounts?

If I do need the whole mount (or both), are there any alternatives to OEM - either cheaper for same quality or better performing for same ballpark price? I've seen Lemforder brand shock mounts for substantially less (http://www.pelicanparts.com/cgi-bin/...2529%2520%2520), for instance - but the price difference makes me wary!

Finally, I've read that I need a ball joint separator, because of the AWD setup. Any other special tools besides the normal wrenches/sockets/breaker bars/jackstands that I will need?

 

I've been looking at getting a M030 as well. Carnewal seems to be the best/lowest price place to get it.

 

Just placed the order for the M030 setup (through Carnewal) and the strut mounts (through Suncoast). Gert was very easy to work with; hopefully everything ships out ok! Pics to come, eventually.