Suspension crash course

[blakejones]

just got my 02 SiR, want to slam it

whats the first, mid, and final steps?
any help??

http://i870.photobucket.com/albums/ab264/blakejoneswho/sir111.jpg

[4angrybadgers]

First step: go peruse the Suspension forum and read the multiple threads where others have already asked the same question numerous times. http://www.ephatch.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?10-Suspension-Wheels-Tires

[Rasy]

Coilovers.

If you're going to do it once, (and please do, I love Euro Yellow) do it right. Installation is much easier too, since you don't have to dissemble them.

Do not just get a set of springs with stock struts and wait until their blown, then your car is just riding on springs, and that's not good for your tires at all. At least when on coilovers, they're matched and designed to work together for the start. I've heard of people blowing those too, but factor in if they installed it improperly, don't maintain it over time, and drive on the stiffest settings all around town. The proper setup for a fwd car should always have softer suspension in the front, so the tires can gain more traction and power out of a turn - not stiff all around.

I just want to disclaim that when you lower a car that low (mine is 2" all around), you start to compromise handling, gain possible interior rattles, steering squeaks, and bottoming out on the smallest dip (it seems like). If I could start over (my car was lowered with H&R Sport Springs when I got it), I would have gotten an HFP or Mugen kit and call it a day - for my street application. If you intend on racing, and as always with any forum post, take this one as a guideline and not by heart.

I'm not trying to dictate what you should and shouldn't do, but just wanted to give a fair reason on practicality in choosing as well.

[nolimit59]

well wrote and though out post, i think you CAN take his advice to heart because its the same you will get anywhere. Do it once and do it right, coilovers. And dont buy the cheapest ones from ebay you can find either, money well spent now is money saved later.

[Johnny]

First rule of slamming your car is, "Don't slam it!" :)

[kai-wun]

With our mcP setups, anything under about 1" below stock is seriously compromising handling.... however if you're willing to sacrifice some of that; take a lookie here:

http://forums.clubep3.com/showthread.php?t=565170