thanks Van

It might come down to that, I'm not sure if motor work is still in the budget. i found a bad A-arm bushing and torn boot on my brake caliper i also have to fix now.
I've tried disconnected the front sway at rally crosses and it really hurt my times (although felt okay). good to know about the travel. sounds like i'm about perfect. maybe i'll only up the front .5K or just dial back on the camber.
I'll have to hit up the craigslist 1.8L guy
you can't physically pull up on the trunk release, but the key part works. i'll try spraying it. If its cheaper i'll just convert to some sort of locking hood/trunk pin from summit. (assuming its class legal)