Pete P. A question about your 8" rear coilovers

[Guest JAMIE T]

We have spoken about our wheel tire combos before. We are using similar sized wheels and similar backspacing. I was looking at my rear strut tubes to shorten and ad the coilover sleeves. The base of your coilover is above the rear tire correct? How long is your sleeve? If I put my sleeve so that it is just above the tire, then it could only be about 1.5"-2" long. Maybe your sleeve is longer, but the adjuster is adjusted to be above the tire? I have 275/40/17 tires right now, but I think I'm gonna have to go alittle narrower.

[pparaska]

My adjustable spring perch is about an inch or so above the rim lip. The bottom of the spring is about half way up the sidewall.

 

I shortened my strut tubes 1.5".

 

I also used a Carrera coilover kit, which I think allows for 4 inches of adjustment. I have the top of the sleeve right under the gland nut at the top of the strut. Since this put an inch or so of sleeve below the 17 inch rim lip, where it couldn't be used (rim and tire would interfere), I shortened the sleeves in the rear by about an inch (took it off the top of the sleeve). Now the bottom of the sleeve is just above the rim lip.

 

Let me know if I can add any more info that'll help.

[Danno74Z]

Hi Pete,

 

Now that your Z is back on the road how does it ride i.e. harsh, stiff, or too soft? If you had to change the spring rate would you? What would you do different with the struts etc.? Some basic question but your knowledge and opinions are most welcomed.

 

Have a Happy New Year!

Danno74Z

[pparaska]

I have 225 front and 300 rear springs (lb/in)

 

To damp the 300 lb/in springs sufficiently, I have to run the Tokicos on 4. For the front, that means 3 works out well. But it's too harsh for me like that.

 

With the Tokicos down a notch each (2 front, 3 rear) the ride is much better, until the rear starts pogoing up and down - underdamped. Not good for the struts. And 300s will blow out the struts in time. Word has it that 250 lb/in is max for a Tokico.

 

So I have some 225 lb/in 8" springs I'm putting in the rear (someday). Hopefully the suspension won't bottom much at all. That's the main concern. If it does, I can go to 250s. I'm thinking of leaving the 225s up front at first.

[Guest JAMIE T]

Thanks Pete. BTW, I am using 250lb-8" springs in the rear. I am using 250lb springs on all 4 corners, then tune it from there. Thanks for the info on the spring location, it helps me alot!