Springs / Rates for Coilover kit

Rogue_Wulff · 09-02-2008, 12:39 PM

I wouldn't think the extra weight of a 13B would really need a stiffer spring. It's not that much different in weight from a 12A. Especially considering I still have a fully functioning AC on the car.
You also have to take into account the struts. Having adjustable struts also affects how the spring rates will alter the ride characteristics of the car. You can stiffen a softer spring by stiffening the strut. It's kinda hard to soften a too-stiff spring. Aftermarket swaybars also factor in here, since the front is almost always much larger than stock.
The idea is to create a suspension setup that will work well together, without destroying the ride quality on a car that will see street use. Overly stiff suspension only works well on a very smooth track. The rest of the time, it's more of a nuisance than anything. Few streets are really smooth enough for an overly stiff suspension to work well.

09-02-2008, 12:39 PM	#1
Rogue_Wulff Non Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Posts: 310 Rep Power: 18	I wouldn't think the extra weight of a 13B would really need a stiffer spring. It's not that much different in weight from a 12A. Especially considering I still have a fully functioning AC on the car. You also have to take into account the struts. Having adjustable struts also affects how the spring rates will alter the ride characteristics of the car. You can stiffen a softer spring by stiffening the strut. It's kinda hard to soften a too-stiff spring. Aftermarket swaybars also factor in here, since the front is almost always much larger than stock. The idea is to create a suspension setup that will work well together, without destroying the ride quality on a car that will see street use. Overly stiff suspension only works well on a very smooth track. The rest of the time, it's more of a nuisance than anything. Few streets are really smooth enough for an overly stiff suspension to work well.