since fitting a fairy complex sound system in my boot I've noticed an immediate lack of traction and not so sure footed in the bends, I put my foot down in 3rd at about 50-60mph and felt car wander a bit so not so good... is there anything I can do to improve my situation? wasn't expecting such a difference as since the car was new it's never lost traction once which really impressed me with the VAQ diff and it made the car handle nicely.

 

it's still a bit damp on the roads which won't help matters but any suggestions would be considered (except remove the system!). car is 2016 vRS230 combi.

 

How heavy is that audio system? If it helps, I can relate to your story but when the boot is fully loaded with heavy stuff (which makes sense because it lifts the front axle ever so slightly and thus allows for a lesser pressure on the pulling wheels = worse traction; and yes, cornering is unpleasant when fully loaded)

I wouldn't say it's megga heavy, 12" sub, 2 amps, fibre glass enclosure which should be lighter than MDF, main weight will be MDF base for amps and sundries but I routered a good chunk off the underside to reduce weight somewhat..

 

Edited 12 January, 20188 yr by marko

19 minutes ago, marko said:

I wouldn't say it's megga heavy, 12" sub, 2 amps, fibre glass enclosure which should be lighter than MDF, main weight will be MDF base for amps and sundries but I routered a good chunk off the underside to reduce weight somewhat..

 

 

No help but that looks like an awesome install! Is there a project thread for this?

Wow, that looks awesome. 

35 minutes ago, ahenners said:

 

No help but that looks like an awesome install! Is there a project thread for this?

 

https://www.talkstuff.net/ipb/index.php/topic/382948-octavia-vrs230-install/

 

it's far from finished but starting to take shape..

Nice setup.

 

From what you describe I wouldn't attribute any fault with your boot loading. Granted yours is more powerful than mine...

 

i recently completed a project in my garden which entailed a number of trips to the DIY shop. One journey was for six 25kg bags of gravel, 150kg plus a couple of small bits. All the seats were up so the weight was very much to the rear  and some of it behind the rear wheels.

 

Only me in the front, mixed road conditions, no negative symptoms whatsoever, obviously you knew the weight was there but she drove fine, even from standstill.

 

So, unless that little lot in your picture tips the scales at well over 150kg, I'd be looking elsewhere for the cause...

Edited 12 January, 20188 yr by Mence

if I had to guess I would say about 40kg but no idea.. you could say the sub and enclosure weigh the same as a spare wheel so that would leave a 46"x48" piece of MDF and the electronics..

 

the only other thing that is different right now is the airbag light is on, probably absolutely nothing to do with the traction what so ever but thought I'd mention it.. I made the mistake of starting the car whilst the glovebox was out (airbag switch unplugged), need to pop round to a friends to reset it, he could do a few other mods/tricks whilst there too!

What about fitting some better springs?  I fully load mine with camping gear and  with the tent  alone weighing 30kg have no traction issues.  Fitted Eibachs. 

 

Also the system looks amazing.

Edited 13 January, 20188 yr by pkoconnor

Much Cheapness.

Graystone spring assisters.

bit confused, how is  adjusting ride height going to improve weight distribution? to be fair the rear doesn't look that much lower than usual, not a noticeable difference like other cars I have kitted out.

I'm starting to tow a caravan with my vrs est but with only a 75kg noesweight I'm thinking about fitting mad spring helpers.has anybody fitted these

It may be with the center of gravity moved further back you could check tyre pressures and maybe try a little less in the fronts. It's such a small change in balance  its no different to carrying some cargo or passengers. I am surprised  it has made such a difference

oddly enough I haven't noticed it since! maybe it was just extra wet on the floor that morning but it was certainly noticeable and concerning!