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Technical coil overs question

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domesticpower

Track Addict
190
135
NS
I have always read/been told that coil overs are better than upgraded shocks and springs. My question is: why? If you have regular mono tube struts and shocks with the same damping rates as a certain coil over kit, non-progressive springs with the same spring rates and you couple these with upgraded shock mounts and c/c plates, would you get the same performance as that coil over kit or there's something different in the construction of coil overs? Is there a benefit to having the shock and spring acting in the same direction in the back? I'm sorry if this has been asked before - I couldn't find anything. Be as detailed as you'd like or if you know a good article, a link to it would be great! Thanks in advance!
 

PeteInCT

#LS-378 - So many Porsche's, so little time....
Moderator
2,848
14
Connecticut
domesticpower said:
I have always read/been told that coil overs are better than upgraded shocks and springs. My question is: why? If you have regular mono tube struts and shocks with the same damping rates as a certain coil over kit, non-progressive springs with the same spring rates and you couple these with upgraded shock mounts and c/c plates, would you get the same performance as that coil over kit or there's something different in the construction of coil overs? Is there a benefit to having the shock and spring acting in the same direction in the back? I'm sorry if this has been asked before - I couldn't find anything. Be as detailed as you'd like or if you know a good article, a link to it would be great! Thanks in advance!

You should find your answer here:

http://www.pirate4x4.com/tech/billavista/coilovers/Part_1/

-Pete
 
That's an awesome read, albeit pretty technical. Seems like the biggest point for coil-over's is the adjustability that comes with being able to change the springs out, that and the difference in size that allows you to run bigger tires and what not is also a plus.
 
Great find now if I can find a couple of hours to read it all.
 

domesticpower

Track Addict
190
135
NS
I think you'll need more than a couple of hours to read it all and part 2.

Thanks for the post! still going through it lol.
 

isrboss

For the average track day goer, simply spring design, ride height adj. and weight savings.
 
isrboss said:
For the average track day goer, simply spring design, ride height adj. and weight savings.
that and if you aren't at the level to drive a car with nice coilovers they will be a waste of money, IMO.
 

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