SHOCKS and SPRINGS FAQ ! (by Ben Sabini)

This is taken from the old "Shocks And Struts FAQ" with improvements. After reading from old digests until the last posting digest, I think have collected enough data to make this article. It is basically answer the FAQ about Struts and Shocks; what kind of shocks or struts is better? Which is reliable? How much are they? What is the best combination?...etc.
NOTE: All data that is posted here is taken from Talon Digest and from each manufacture catalog.
PS: Some of the pictures are just sample, to give you roughly discription what would the real product like.

SHOCKS

GAB
This shock is made by KYB. KYB also made shocks for other cars to, but GAB is a high performance one. For racing applications, this shocks seems to be the best choice, it is very stiff even at its lowest setting, and pretty much easy to change the setting unlike Koni shocks. But for everyday ride if you can't stand the stiffness of this shock, you might buy different shocks. S

SUPER HP

GYMKHANA/RALLY

KONI
I think only not long ago Koni start making shocks for Japanese cars. This shock is made in Germany and have been used in many stock race cars like AMG-Benz, and BMW M3. Installation for this shock required a bit of a job; cutting drilling, and maybe welding. The front ones are easy to adjust for changing stiffness, but the rear you have to take it out first and adjust. So it is better to adjust first, then install the rear shocks. For everyday driving and a little bit of sports I think this is the best choice.

SPRINGS

GAB
High performance progressive rate springs are designed to meet the requirements to today's low profile radial tires. Price: $$$

GYMKHANA/RALLY

H&R
Still made from Europe (I think) this spring according from many people is excellent for everyday drive, and some racing application. You wont notice the different until you really do some cornering. This spring will lower your car about 1 inch, and it is progressive.
Price: ~$300

Eibach
Even HKS now sells Eibach, so it should be a good spring. It is very stiff, and it will lower your car about 1 1/4 inch. I think this is the lowest spring that you can get for T/E/L.
Price: ~$300

Suspension Techniques
Rides a bit stiff on the street, but good if you are doing autocross.
Price: ~$250

InTrax
This spring just been introduced back in late 1995 I guess. Some say that this spring tent to sagged after few days of using it.
Price; $$$

COMBINATIONS

• Jim Mckenna using GAB and Eibach, result; - it really did not lower the car too much at all. Almost the same height as stock. - it rides hard although have been set to the lowest setting. - it *does* handle like its on rails now. - it lessened the wheel hop about the same as a stocker suspension with the front tires down to 18 lb. - it does not go down on its haunches when shifting. Its rock steady.

• Brian [Btalont@aol.com] Recommend; KONI's which he sets for compromise street and/or race. For competition, he recommend GAB, as they are externally adjustable front and rear. They are quite stiff at their lowest settings however.

• OTHERS Suggestions It is better at first to repair any damages on your suspension before putting new ones, it will cost you some bucks in the long run, and when in needed condition. It is also better to changed both shocks and springs at the same time, so you don't have to do the job twice or have to do alignments twice.

• Cut springs One thing for sure NEVER EVER cut springs, you will not only ruin the measurements and the balance of the springs, you will also suffer unstable riding conditions. This can be extremely dangerous when you race with cuts spring. It will lower your car for sure and looks nice, but you will never know what the cut springs can do to your car. Better way is buy a lowering spring. Always balance your car after changing the shocks or springs.

Credits

• • Ben Sabini
  • Tom Stangl (Editing)

Comments or questions contact Benjamin Sabini