Coil over springs - how much better?

mrx · Post by **mrx** » Thu Sep 23, 2004 8:28 am

So how much better are coil overs compared to "normal" spring/shock setups? I have whiteline springs and new KYB shocks, but how much of a difference would it be with coil-overs?

Remember, it is an occasional driver so overall comfort not an issue, and will be at the track days too.

D-TRAIN · Post by **D-TRAIN** » Thu Sep 23, 2004 9:13 am

Good question MrX.

I'm thinking the same thing. I currently have RSR down-springs but I think my shocks can be improved. So, I'm considering my options of getting some adjustable shocks, or spend a little more and get coil-overs.

Also, anyone on the forum use Cusco Zero-1 or Zero-2 coil-overs? Any positive/negative feedback?

ruchi · Post by **ruchi** » Thu Sep 23, 2004 11:23 am

suspension is all about getting the right setup for your needs, coilovers aren't going to be better for everyone or for every situation. It comes down to what you want to achieve and then getting the appropriate rated suspension to match.

One benefit that coilovers do have is that the shock and spring are matched (tuned for each other) as opposed to a spring and shock from two seperate manufacturers which may not be ideal for each other.

Jono · Post by **Jono** » Thu Sep 23, 2004 3:30 pm

i have tein HA's ..

i like them for what they are, but they dont have the ballance for every situation just like ruchi said..

i think due to inconsitancy in roads like some being really smooth and fine and some being bumpy and rough or mix and match... haha i feel its probably better to have a softer setup. which could justify use of spring and shock setups.... You will get decent stroke and probably a softer shock

i think Coilovers have better fine tuning ability but you will need to find a coilover that suits road or track or dirt or whatever your aiming for just like spring and shock setupds.

The Tein HA's are for the track, so it is kinda uncomfortable for the road.
canberra has a pretty good "average" type of road, i can set my car up pretty low and stiff, but once i visit sydney where there are more bumpy roads i do have to soften it up, but the only thing is that its not easy to adjust the height for more stroke , i would have to jack the car up and use the suspension wrench... and measure...ect ect..

My next suspension setup will be a coilover, but im yet to find one matched for the street... maybe Whiteline? or the new Tein streets..

With coilovers u can fine tune your suspension... with Spring + shock you cant( as much)..

spetz · Post by **spetz** » Thu Sep 23, 2004 3:40 pm

Coilovers I think are best to use when you want:
1. Really low daily driver
2. Track car

I have a fulcrum coilover kit, and the car sits very low and I do not hit the bumpstops at all, and ride is good considering how low it is. But, for road use they are fairly stiff for bumpy roads, and I would suggest going springs (1-2" drop) and some good shocks if you don't need your car to be really low.
On the track though I am confident coilovers will definately outhandle springs+shocks.

Jono · Post by **Jono** » Thu Sep 23, 2004 3:50 pm

also it may also be good to find out if the particular Coilover can be serviced...
so that u dont have to replace them.. after its first life..

mrx · Post by **mrx** » Thu Sep 23, 2004 7:20 pm

Well, it is not so important at the moment - missed the cusco's that were going on ebay because I was in a F%#king training course that ran WAY WAY over time!!!!

The set of 4 went for the princely some of $770. I just put a casual bid on of $760 expecting the usual last minute ebay rush, but it did not happen! I would have paid heaps more than that!!!!

Oh well, onto the next item on my wish list.