Suspension FAQ - Coilovers, HFP suspension, Springs, Camber Kits

RedBull · Jan 12, 2010

COILOVERS

What are coilovers?

Coilover (abbreviated “coils”) is short for "coil spring over strut". It consists of a shock absorber with a coil spring encircling it. The shock absorber and spring are assembled as a unit prior to installation.

Coilovers feature a threaded shock body. Some even have an adjustable lower mount for ride height adjustment independent of the spring seat so spring pre-load is not affected. Many also feature an adjustment knob which can be used to adjust damping, commonly referred to as "stiffness." Spring rate also plays a role in ride stiffness.

A coilover kit will contain 4 spring and strut assemblies that replace the stock suspension (spring and strut).

Still confused? Check out: http://www.pirate4x4.com/tech/billavista/coilovers/Part_1/

Why coils?

Coilovers can help improve the appearance (reduces wheel gap) and handling/performance (lowers center of gravity; reduces body roll, squat, and nose-dive) of your car, especially when the car is corner balanced. Coils are one of the best suspension mods since the struts are (supposed to be) designed and valved to work with the coil springs.

Coils allow for the adjustment of ride height and models with an adjustable damper allow for the adjustment of firmness of the ride by fine tuning the compression and/or rebound.

In general, coilovers will give a firmer than stock ride even at the softest damper setting. This will be especially noticeable on poor roads, expansion joints, pot holes, etc.

How much do they cost?

There are many to chose from. A few options are listed below along with the manufacturer's description and specs. Price will depend on features, quality of components, and build quality. A coilover kit consists of (4) spring/strut assemblies. When this was written, approx. prices were:

- TEIN Basics: $800 (8G sedan on Basics) -- (discontinued and replaced by Tein Street Basis)

TEIN type BASIC damper offers a high quality coilover system at an entry level price. Drivers will feel an increase in stability and grip, while maintaining good ride quality on the street and freeway. A shortened shell case is utilized to allow for better ride and improved performance at lowered ride heights. BASIC damper is a great option for consumers wanting a simple and quality made coilover.

• Spring Rates: 9kg Front / 5kg Rear
• Steel Construction
• Twin Tube internal construction
• Larger piston diameter for strut type front and rear (22mm)
• Ride Height adjustable via spring seat
• Powder coated damper body with Zinc coated threaded section
• 1-year Manufacturers Defect Warranty
• Available for Overhaul

- TEIN Street Basis: MSRP $590

The Street Basis damper is the evolution of the popular BASIC coilover. Developed to provide a sporty ride feeling and aggressive stance. The shortened shell case design provides optimum damper stroke at lowered ride heights. Vehicle ride height is adjustable via the ZT coated threaded sleeve. Updated internal components and external coatings increase durability and product life. Street Basis dampers are great for daily driving and spirited driving for all types of drivers.

Made in Japan under strict quality control standards and developed by highly trained suspension engineers.

• Spring Rates: 9kg Front / 5kg Rear
• Steel Construction
• Twin Tube internal construction
• Larger piston diameter for strut type front and rear (22mm)
• Ride Height adjustable via spring seat
• Powder coated damper body
• Non-welded ZT coated Adjustment Tube
• Full-Length Dust Boots
• 1-piece Aluminum Spring Seat with Delrin Thrust Washer
• 1-year Manufacturers Defect Warranty
• Available for Overhaul
• part # GSB78-1USS2

- TEIN SuperStreet: $1100 [ Comparison between Tein SuperStreet and Basics ("starbai") ] -- (discontinued and replaced by Tein Street Advance)

TEIN Super Street damper kit was designed for drivers seeking improved handling on the street and track. A shortened shell case is utilized to allow the most piston stroke possible, which allows for a better ride at lowered ride heights and increased grip at the track. Great for daily driving and occasion track use, whether it be at the drag strip, local circuit, or Auto-X course. Includes both ride height and damping force adjustment to allow the driver to dial in the suspension for various surface conditions.

• 16 way adjustable dampers, compression and rebound combined
• Spring Rates: 9kg Front / 5kg Rear
• Steel Construction
• Twin Tube internal construction
• Larger piston diameter for strut type front and rear (22mm)
• Ride Height adjustable via spring seat
• Powder coated damper body with Zinc coated threaded section
• 1-year Manufacturers Defect Warranty
• Available for Overhaul

- TEIN Street Advance: MSRP $690

The Street Advance damper is the evolution of our popular Super Street coilover. Developed to provide a sporty ride feeling and aggressive stance, along with wide-range damping force adjustment using our new Advance Needle technology, giving the driver a much more noticeable feel in damping force change. The shortened shell case design provides optimum damper stroke at lower than standard vehicle ride height. Vehicle ride height is adjustable via the ZT coated threaded sleeve. Updated internal components and external coatings increase durability and product life. Street Advance dampers are great for daily driving and spirited driving for all types of drivers.

Made in Japan under strict quality control standards and developed by highly trained suspension engineers.

• 16-way Damping adjustment with over 200% increase in damping force change.*
• Spring Rates: 9kg Front / 5kg Rear
• Steel Construction
• Twin Tube internal construction
• Larger piston diameter for strut type front and rear (22mm)
• Ride Height adjustable via spring seat
• Powder coated damper body
• Non-welded ZT coated Adjustment Tube
• Full-Length Dust Boots
• 1-piece Aluminum Spring Seat with Delrin Thrust Washer
• 1-year Manufacturers Defect Warranty
• Available for Overhaul
• part # GSB78-2USS2

*over comparable Super Street damper, based on damping dyno graph data. Increase in damping force over comparable Super Street damper may vary for specific vehicle applications.

- Megan EZ Street Series: MSRP $799

The EZ STREET coilover is targeted at those who are looking for performance on a budget. It provide 15 Levels of damping force adjustment, full-height adjustment, and are finished with strengthened rubber bushing top mounts. Megan Racing coilovers have springs that are made of SAE-9254 Steel, and are tested over 500,000 times by compression inspection.

- Spring Rate: 10kg Front / 5kg Rear
- 15 Levels of Adjustable Damper Strength
- Aluminum Brackets paired with rubber bushing top mounts
- Rubber Dust Covers
- Adjustable Ride Height
- Conservative Spring Rates
- Single-Cylinder Design
- Aluminum Brackets
- 1 year manufacture-defect warranty.
- part # MR-CDK-HA08-EZ

- Megan Street Series: MSRP $999

The Street Series coilover features 32 levels of damper force adjustment, separate spring perch height and shock length adjustment allowing you to retain full suspension stroke and to fine tune your suspension characteristics. These damper kits are then perfectly matched with front and rear Pillow Ball upper mounts, including camber plates integrated with the upper Pillow Ball mounts on strut-type suspension applications.

- Spring Rates: 12kg Front / 6kg Rear
- 32 Levels of Adjustable Damper
- Pillow Ball Upper Mounts
- Rubber Dust Covers
- Adjustable Ride Height
- Aggressive Spring Rates
- Single-Cylinder Design
- Aluminum Brackets
- 1 year manufacturer-defect warranty.
- part # MR-CDK-HA08

- Buddy Club N+ Spec: ~ $1150

N+ SPEC DAMPER from Buddy Club is a complete suspension setup with resemblance of our RACING SPEC damper's excellent attributes. It is cost effective and is well rounded for the budget minded weekend club racer. With optional urethane isolated aluminum upper mount design, engineered spring rates, 15 level damper adjustability, and ride height adjustment capabilities, the N+ SPEC DAMPER can accommodate any driver's preferences.

- mono tube
- 15 Level Adjustment
- part # BC02-NP08CP23

- Buddy Club Racing Spec: ~ $1350

Racing Spec Damper is the perfect complete suspension kit with resemblance of P-1 racing damper's excellent designs while it is de-tuned for street - circuit use. It is a high performance sports suspension kit designed by engineers using a vast quantity of data that Buddy Club has accumulated in the past 15 years using its high performance aluminum damper on various racing cars and tuned cars, focused more on the proper damper size, spring rate, dampening, stroke length for customer's use in winding roads and race tracks.

- Adjustment bracket
- 15 Level Adjustment
- Single tube type shell case
- Specialized Pillow-Upper Mount
- Spring seat / lock seat
- Original Buddy Club
- Spring Rate: 11kg Front, 4kg Rear
- part # BC02-RSD08CP23

- Function & Form (F2) Type One: MSRP $700... usually on sale for ~ $630

This is the first coilover that F2 developed and distributed a few years ago. It has since made a return, with improvements to design and functionality. The Type ONE coilover is a full bodied coilover. It is fully threaded and height adjustable to provide a comfortable ride in any import car. The Type ONE is a quality, durable, and cost effective product for the consumer that seeks an innovative entry-level product for their automobile.

- Ride height adjustable
- Dampening pre-set for optimal ride quality
- Adjustable from lower mount, which allows user to retain full shock travel and pre-load adjustments.
- Dual Tube shock design for maximum ride comfort and durability.
- Steel construction of lower mounts for increased durability and minimal flex under load.
- Spring Rates F: 12Kg, R: 6kg
- part # FF-TYPE1-ACCORD08

- Function & Form (F2) Type Two: MSRP $1150.... usually on sale for ~ $900

The Type Two Coil-Over is our flagship full bodied coil-over. More aggressive than the Type One, we aimed to make it the ultimate street inspired coil-over. Our philosophy was a coil-over designed for street durability, comfort, and style, but can endure the occasional track days. Steel materials have been used for the lower mounts to give the shocks OEM durability. Spring rates are slightly more aggressive than a Type One to handle occasional track duties and spirited street driving.

- 32 levels of damping (adjustments made with a knob that “clicks” at each level)
- Steel lower mounts for maximum strength
- Adjustable Camber Plates (when applicable)
- Top mounts included (when applicable)
- Ride height adjustable separate of pre-load
- Special oil lubrication to withstand conditions from -40 degrees Celsius to 200 degrees Celsius.
- Dual tube shock design for maximum ride comfort.
- Double wishbone piston size 43mm
- McPherson strut piston size 50mm.
- Spring Rates F: 12kg, R: 8kg
- part # FF-TYPE2-ACCORD08

- BC Racing BR Series: MSRP $1250 (DIY here: http://www.driveaccord.net/forums/showthread.php?t=41858 )

Perfect for street driving and occasional road course duty. With easily accessible adjustment knobs for fine tuning your compression/rebound and separately adjustable ride height, having a performance coilover system couldn’t be any easier. You choose how low or high you want your vehicle, no preset ride height here, and our patented concave lower locking ring keeps it locked in.

- Mono-tube shock design
- 30 levels of damping force adjustment, adjust compression/rebound
- Pillowball mounts and adjustable camber plates included (where applicable)
- Adjustable rear camber plates available
- Separate full length height adjustable
- One year warranty
- Rebuildable
- Spring Rates F: 10K, R: 6K
- part # A-26

-H&R Street Performance: MSRP $1480.... usually sells for $1250

H&R Street Performance Coil Overs are the perfect suspension solution for discerning drivers -- from daily drivers to serious tuners -- who can appreciate the awesome handling and superb ride comfort. Each coil over shock is custom valved and tuned to work in conjunction with a precision-engineered progressive rate spring that is engineered from its inception to work with the shock’s valving, creating a finely tuned suspension system.

- State-of-the-art mono-tube gas shock construction
- Unrivaled comfort, performance
- Fully threaded shock body for adjustable vehicle lowering
- Height adjustable to 1.0" - 2.5” on average
- Lifetime warranty
- part # : 51857

- ISC N1: ~ $950

The N1 coilover can be lowered approximately 3" lower than standard ride height. Has a spring rate setup to suit your car for improved handling and stability. Packages made for track/rally/drag and of course street. To help customers out even more they're given the option to pick their own custom spring rates at no extra charge.

- 32-Step Adjustable Dampening
- Pillowball Upper mount
- Piston Rod Design
- Sports Springs (Street Comfort, Street/Sport, Race/Track)
- Ride Height Adjustable
- Aluminum Bracket
- Single Cylinder Design
- One year warranty
- part # H030-C (Street Comfort Series) : Spring Rate F: 12kg , R: 8kg
. . . . . . H030-T (Track Series) : Spring Rate F: 14kg , R: 10kg
. . . . . . H030-S (Street Sport Series) : Spring Rate F: 12kb , R: 8kg

- Koni/Eibach FSD kit: ~ $650

The Koni FSD (Frequency Selective Damping) kit isn't really a coilover in the true sense. It is a spring and strut kit that allows you to lower your car 1"-1.5" and gives you the ability to adjust the damping. The FSD kit pairs Koni's Sport struts with Eibach's Pro-Kit lowering springs. The FSD is specifically designed to combine the ultimate in comfort and road-holding, offering great handling and an excellent ride quality.

- Adjustable damping force level
- Lifetime warranty
- part # : 2100-4120

RedBull · Jan 13, 2010

How much do they cost? (cont'd)

- KSport Kontrol Pro: MSRP $1,000

Provide the ultimate in suspension technology for your street or track car. 36 levels of damping adjustment allow you to fine tune the ride to your handling and comfort needs. The damping adjusts compression and rebound simultaneously for ease of adjustment. Most applications utilize an adjustable lower mount, which means you adjust height without losing suspension travel. Mounts and most pieces of the coilover are designed of 6061 billet aluminum for lightweight, durability, and rust resistance. The steel shock body is electroplated with zinc to resist rust and the elements. The valving of each set is matched to the springs installed for unmatched ride quality and reliability.

- 36 levels of adjustable damping

- Made from high quality 6061 aluminum with T6 for increased hardness

- Compression/Rebound adjustable

- Adjustable spring perch for height adjustment

- Adjustable body allowing maximum suspension travel

- Pillowball top mount with adjustable camber (not available for some models)

- Monotube high pressure design reduces oil leakage

- Electroplated body for protection from corrosion and rust

- 18 month limited warranty

- part # : CHD230-KP (I-4) / CHD231-KP (V6)

- D2 Racing RS: MSRP $1,425.00

The RS coilover system is a 36 way damper and rebound adjustable monotube full coilover system. The setup has seperate height and preload adjustments allowing for optimal adjustment and allowing full strut travel at all times along with pillowball upper mounts or top mounts*. Mounts are constructed of 6061 powder coated aluminum. Threads are teflon coated to prevent rust. Rebuildable and serviceable in the US.

- 36-way adjustable dampening

- Made from high quality 6061 Aluminum with T6 for increased hardness

- Compression/Rebound adjustable

- Adjustable spring perch for height adjustment

- Adjustable body allowing maximum suspension travel

- Pillow Ball Top Mount w/ adjustable camber (not available for some models)

- Monotube High Pressure Design reduces oil leakage

- Electroplated body for protection from corrosion and rust

- One Year Limited Warranty

- part # : D-HN-08

- XYZ Super Sport (SS): $900

The XYZ Racing Super Sport (SS) coilover system is a 30-step rebound adjustable monotube full coilover system. The setup has separate height and pre-load adjustments allowing for optimal adjustment and allowing full strut travel at all times. Pillowball upper mounts and top mounts are constructed of 6061 powder coated aluminum. Threads are teflon coated to prevent rust. Rebuildable and serviceable in the US.

- 30 levels of adjustable damping

- Made from high quality 6061 aluminum with T6 for increased hardness

- Adjustable spring perch for height adjustment

- Adjustable body allowing maximum suspension travel

- Pillowball top mount with adjustable camber (not available for some models)

- Monotube high pressure design reduces oil leakage

- Electroplated body for protection from corrosion and rust

- Spring Rates: 14kg front, 7kg rear

- part # : HN08 SS (I-4) / HN09 SS (V6)

- Koni Sport (Yellow): $

KONl Sport struts and shocks are the industry leader for user adjustable damping for daily drivers to weekend warriors. KONl Sport's familiar yellow color has for decades meant superior motion control and adjustability for the discerning driving enthusiast.

- part # : 8041-1406LSPORT (front left)

. . . . . . . 8041-1406RSPORT (front right)

. . . . . . . 8041-1407SPORT (rear)

- Yellow Speed Racing Dynamic Pro Sport: $850

The DPS coilover system is a 33 way damper and rebound adjustable monotube full coilover system. The setup has separate height and pre-load adjustments allowing for optimal adjustment and allowing full strut travel at all times. Pillowball upper mounts and top mounts are constructed of 6061 powder coated aluminum. Threads are teflon coated to prevent rust. Rebuildable and serviceable in the US.

- 33 levels of adjustable damping

- Made from high quality 6061 aluminum with T6 for increased hardness

- Adjustable spring perch for height adjustment

- Adjustable body allowing maximum suspension travel

- Pillowball top mount with adjustable camber (not available for some models)

- Monotube high pressure design reduces oil leakage

- Electroplated body for protection from corrosion and rust

- Spring Rates: 18kg front, 7kg rear

- part # : YS01-HD-DPS006 (I-4) / YS01-HD-DPS007 (V6)

- Yonaka Spec 2: MSRP $899

Yonaka Motorsports SPEC II (TC2) coilover set for the 2008-2012 Honda Accord, with 28 way fully adjustable dampening. Although designed for the street, they can still handle the occasional track day. The Spec II TC2 is specifically engineered to accommodate even the most intense driving styles.

- 28 Level Fully Adjustable Dampening

- ~4" height adjustment travel distance

- Fully threaded mono tube advanced shock absorber

- Inner bump stop to prevent damage cause by rapid compression impacts

- Wide range of height adjustment without changing the spring compression.

- Bottom of the shock is threaded to allow height adjustments without having to shorten the suspension travel

- Rubber dust shield protecting piston for long life

- Adjustment tools included

- 1 year warranty against factory defects

- Spring Rates: 12kg front, 6 kg rear

- part # : YMTC2-ACC0812

- Standard Suspension R1 : MSRP $1,045

The R1 is the best choice to keep the comfort on a car driven every day. You can lower the ride height of your vehicle without affecting the travel of the suspension. Moreover you can easily adjust the damping force to increase the performance of the suspension in order to deal with different road types and conditions. This suspension system provides performance without sacrificing comfort; it provides everything you need to enjoy driving your car in the street and on the track.

- 12 Level adjustable damping

- Exclusive measurement system

- Monotube design

- Molybdenum* rod

- Adjustable ride-height -0.5” to -4.5”

- Separate ride-height and spring pre-load

- Forged aluminium parts ; Anodized & powdercoated finish

- Custom spring rate

- Short cartridge for lower application

- Fully adjustable; Street or racing use

- part # HD04-R1

- Godspeed Project Mono-SS

The Mono-SS series is a new addition to our Godspeed Project suspension line and offers the bare minimum for what we believe an after-market coilover system should be without sacrificing reliability, quality and performance. Featuring a Mono-Tube shock, this series is built more for consumers who are on a budget but want the best bang for their buck. For a much more comfortable ride the Mono-SS all come with a Poly Urethane bushing in both the top hat and lower bracket for an improved ride instead of a spherical bearing which can be too stiff and noisy for some. The Mono-SS also caters to consumers who will be driving their cars on the daily and also occasional track days through the year. The Mono-SS is 16 way adjustable which allows you to fine tune the shock dampening to your liking. Whether you are driving 50 miles to work or setting a new personal best record on a local race track the Mono-SS will provide you with the performance you need to get the job done!

- 16 Levels of Dampening

- Mono-Tube shock design

- Powder coated damper body

- Ride height and spring preload are completely separate (Ride height can be changed without touching spring preload)

- Poly Urethane bushing in both the top hat and lower bracket

- One Year Warranty from Date of Purchase

- Spring Rates : 10kg front, 6kg rear

- part # : MSS0230

- TruHart StreetPlus: MSRP $620

Featuring a full monotube design with integrated aluminum top mounts, the StreetPlus coilover is an ideal solution for today's budget-minded tuner looking to lower their vehicle and increase handling performance. The independently adjustable lower mount allows fine tuning of a vehicle's height without sacrificing shock travel, resulting in a sporty yet comfortable ride on the street or strip.

- part # TH-H809

- Black Works Racing SS: MSRP $1000

The BWR SS Coilover feature's a wide range of height adjustments without changing the spring compression and sacrificing the shock stroke. Traditional Coilovers requires the movement of the spring perch to determine the ride height, causing a reduction in suspension travel and induce coil spring binding. The bottom shock fork / connector is threaded to allow height adjustments to each drivers need without having to shorten the suspension travel by maintaining the original spring perch location. With this function, each driver can lower the center of gravity to achieve better handling, without sacrificing ride quality.

- 6061 Aluminum upper mounts

- no damper adjustment

- 3 year limited warranty

- Spring Rates: 17kg front, 7kg rear

- part # SS-HD21

What drop will I get on coils?

Expect a minimum of 1". Some models can lower the car 3"-4", laying it to the ground.

Here’s what the KSports look like maxed out.

Here's what TEIN Basis looks like on a 8G coupe.

Here’s the kind of drop that springs can achieve.

Here’s the lowering thread (includes pictures of both springs and coils. Look at their signature for which they have installed)

What can I adjust with them?

Height and, on most models, damping.

The adjustable damper allows you to adjust the struts compression and/or rebound. This affects how firm or soft the ride will be.

Height is how high or low your car will sit when measured to the ground.

Exclusive to certain TEIN models (Super Street and Street Advance) is the EDFC (Electronic Damping Force Controller) controller. The EDFC makes it possible to control the damping force (firmness) at the touch of a button while in the drivers seat. This is accomplished by controlling stepping motors installed on each shock absorber.

Any height adjustment requires the removal of the wheel.

How will I adjust them?

To adjust the height of coilovers, you must first jack up your car and remove the wheel/tire. With the included tool (spanner wrench), you unlock the locking collars/spring perch so you can expand or contract the size of the strut which lowers/raises the ride height ("Throwdown"). To adjust the damping, you simply turn the knob on top of the coilover either clockwise or counter clockwise.

Turn damper knob clockwise for a firmer ride. Turn damper knob counter clockwise for a softer ride.

Will I be able to install the coils myself?

It depends on your self-confidence and actual skill. According to Mochimellow, with Megans (and I assume KSports) you just take out the old strut and spring assembly and replace it with the new coilover assembly, but with the Teins you have to “take off the top hat from your OEM assembly and put it onto the Teins”.

Here's a DIY for the BC Racing Coilovers.

What happens after I install my coils?

Drive your car for a couple of weeks and let them settle in. After they’ve settled a little (and by settle we mean compress the coils due to the force of gravity acting upon your car) you can then adjust them and get an alignment.

What will it feel like driving on them?

How those it feels driving your car with Coilovers?

<< Will I need a camber kit? >>

A camber kit is not really "needed" as long as you get a good alignment. Make sure toe is set as close to 0 as possible and you'll usually be okay since a bad toe setting will eat through tires the quickest. However, it is recommended that you purchase either a 1-arm kit, or a 2-arm or 3-arm kit when lowering 1" or more if you want to keep toe and camber settings within manufacturer specifications and to maximize tire tread life.

A 1 arm kit will come with 1 arm to allow for the adjustment of camber only.

A 2 arm kit will come with 1 arm to allow for the adjustment of camber and 1 arm for the adjustment of toe.

A 3 arm kit will come with 1 arm to allow for the adjustment of camber, 1 arm for the adjustment of toe, and 1 arm for the adjustment of set back.

Lowering a car can and will throw off your toe and camber settings. The lower the height, the more those settings can change. A camber and toe kit will allow you to get that toe and camber setting back to within factory specs. If a camber and toe kit is not used, your rear tires can wear unevenly (more inside tread wear vs wear evenly across the width of the tire tread) and they might even wear out slightly faster than without a camber and toe kit.

If you decide you want a camber kit, a 1-arm rear camber kit will be fine if the car is lowered about 1” - 1.5" (like with springs). If you plan to lower the car more than 1.5”, you'll want the 3-arm rear camber kit. Megan Racing Camber kit Installed..... (about 3pc kit)

Camber wear with a corrected toe setting:

Tire wear from an incorrect toe setting:

Camber wear

RedBull · Jan 13, 2010

Which coilover should I get?

Below is a ratings guide (based off of MrHeeltoe's) for a few popular coils to help with your decision. They are rated on the following criteria:

- Cost: A (1) is an expensive kit while a (5) is downright cheap. This rating tries to balance the dollar amount you pay with the value of what you are getting.

- Handling: How the balance of the car is affected, A (1) won't handle as good as stock does while a (5) takes corners like a go-cart.

- Ride Quality: a (5) rating feels close to stock or better, good for the commuter. A (1) is a rough ride that your passengers won't appreciate.

- Ability to tune: Number of clicks doesn't mean much when you can't dial in the car to your liking. (1) means you will have to compromise between ride quality and handling, (5) means you can get the car feeling darn near PERFECT with adjustments available. Height adjustment ability is also a factor here, a (1) being a PITA to adjust and a (5) is easy to adjust over a wide height range.

- Craftsmanship: This is the effort put into production by the maker. A (1) is nothing special, stuff made in an overseas factory, painted and packaged with whatever name in whatever color the buyer wants. (5) means the company put a lot of time into making and tuning the kit. This speaks to buyer confidence, warranty quality, and support you'll get in case you have a problem.

- Height Range: A (1) won't let you put the car on the ground but will have a good medium range to work with in the 1.5" to 2.0" drop range that you can fine tune, while a (5) will let you go from a 1" drop finger gap at the fenders to literally laying on the ground +3" down.

- Tein Basics & Super Streets (both kits have the same specs... the only difference is the Super Street have adjustable damping)

Cost: 2 (Basics), 3 (Super Street). While more costly than the cheapie kits, this is low cost for an upper/mid-class coil. Basics get the 2 because at their price point the competition offers a bit more product.
Handling: 3. Retains a factory balance and is very confidence inspiring albeit with a limit that isn't exceptionally high. Upgrade the bushings for sharper responsiveness.
Ride Quality: 5. At times you'll forget you upgraded your suspension at all. Other times, you'll know but won't be offended.
Ability to tune: 2 (Basics), 4 (Super Street). 2 for the Basics as they are not tunable however they can be revalved by Tein to your liking. 4 for the SS because the 16 clicks available are very finely tuned and will help you find a perfect balance of handling and ride. The range is lower than most other systems because Teins are valved specifically for the springs they come with. In either kit, setting preload will affect balance/height, thus limiting tuning somewhat.
Craftsmanship: 4.5 Designed and assembled in-house (either Japan or USA) with moderate outsourcing for sub-components. Excellent quality control system, most all spare parts are available in stock in the USA, all dampers are fully rebuildable and tunable to your needs. English Instructions are excellent and provide measurement suggestions for quick tuning. You could have a set of Teins for years without needing rebuilding, rebuild them and have them last years more. Factory upper mounts are reused, which complicates installation somewhat but provides noise-free and long-lasting service.
Height Range: 3.5, most reasonable tuners and daily drivers find a good height within the limited range, but VIPers/Flushers/etc will run into limits when really slamming their cars.

Average Score: 3.333 (Basics) 3.833 (SS)

- Tein Street Basis & Street Advance (both kits have the same specs... the only difference is the Street Advance have adjustable damping)

Cost: 3 (Street Basis), 4 (Street Advance). Lower price point vs predecessors (Basics and Super Streets, respectively). While they are marginally more than the cheapie kits, they are low cost for a quality upper/mid-class coil. Street Basis gets a 3 because at their price point the competition still offers a tad bit more in the tunability department.
Handling: 3. Retains a factory balance and is very confidence inspiring albeit with a limit that isn't exceptionally high. Upgrade the bushings for sharper responsiveness.
Ride Quality: 5. At times you'll forget you upgraded your suspension at all. Other times, you'll know but won't be offended.
Ability to tune: 2 (Street Basis), 4 (Street Advance). 2 for the Street Basis as they are not tunable (no adjustable dampers) however they can be revalved by Tein to your liking. 4 for the Street Advance because the 16 clicks available are very finely tuned and will help you find a perfect balance of handling and ride. The range is lower than most other systems because Teins are valved specifically for the springs they come with. In either kit, setting preload will affect balance/height, thus limiting tuning somewhat.
Craftsmanship: 4.5 Designed and assembled in-house (either Japan or USA) with moderate outsourcing for sub-components. Excellent quality control system, most all spare parts are available in stock in the USA, all dampers are fully rebuildable and tunable to your needs. English Instructions are excellent and provide measurement suggestions for quick tuning. You could have a set of Teins for years without needing rebuilding, rebuild them and have them last years more. Factory upper mounts are reused, which complicates installation somewhat but provides noise-free and long-lasting service.
Height Range: 3.5, most reasonable tuners and daily drivers find a good height within the limited range, but VIPers/Flushers/etc will run into limits when really slamming their cars.

Average Score: 3.50 (Basis) 4.000 (Street Advance)

- Megan Racing Street Series & EZ Street Series

Cost: 4.5 (Street), 5 (EZ Street)
Handling: 3.25 The firmness of this kit allows it to corner flat and run hard.
Ride Quality: 2. Most reports are "rides pretty firm," usually either accepted/preffered by younger owners or justified because of the low cost (as if the ride and cost were related somehow).
Ability to tune: 3. With 32 clicks the shocks are widely adjustable but if they are valved firm you can't get away from that without revalving (and these are not able to be revalved). Preload and height range are independent.
Craftsmanship: 2. Initial quality is high while there are mixed long term reviews. More problematic is the limit on manufacturer support. Quality control system and traceability are non-existent. Dampers are not rebuildable; these are "disposable" products.
Height Range: 4. Designed to hit all the "tuner bullet points," these can go as low as you want, the ground is the limit. If you want minimal lowering you may be stuck with a minimum 1.5"-1.75" drop.

Average Score: 3.125 (Street), 3.208 (EZ Street)

- Buddy Club Racing Spec

Cost: 3. You get a lot for your $.
Handling: 3.5. Handles awesome on the street, spring rates are a bit soft for hard charging.
Ride Quality: 4.5. On softer settings this kit feels very comfy, sometimes softer than stock! Rubber upper mounts give up a little road feedback in favor of increased damping from sharp impacts.
Ability to tune: 3.5. Lots of clicks between way too soft and way too firm so you can get it in the right range, but hard to get things EXACT since the overall range is big. You may choose alternative springs either firmer or softer as an extra expense and the shocks can handle them. Pre-load and height range are independent.
Craftsmanship: 3.5. Great quality parts out of the box and made with pride although are probably mostly outsourced for production. Non-rebuildable. Inexpensive replacements are available but not always when you want them. Japanese instructions are not much help. Machining and coatings are excellent, but springs get a (?) in relation to the source/rate/quality.
Height Range: 4. There is a limit on the highest setting, but you can make the car undrivable (slammed) with this kit!

Average Score: 3.667

- H&R Street Performance Coilover

Cost: 2.5. Fairly expensive for the features you get
Handling: 3.8. The tuning of this kit is designed to be good on the street. Based on the R&D abilities and the know-how of H&R and Bilstein, we are giving this kit a 3.8.
Ride Quality: 4. Designed for street use and the quality of parts used will yield an excellent ride on the street with a good level of refinement. This kit should strike a well-executed ride smoothness balance against handling, so we give it a 4.
Ability to tune: 2. Non-adjustable for damping, adjustable for height only.
Craftsmanship: 4.5. Very nice kit made using Bilstein dampers and high quality German springs. These kits are assembled in Europe and are design with a European feel. The standards for these kit are quite high, but much of that does not matter to USA customers with less money to spend. They tend to be less popular because of this. We also feel they are a little conservative on the performance as we've had a few customers change these out for more aggressive Tein SS or HT-Specs.
Height Range: 3.5. Height is adjusted at the spring perch. The general height these drop to is great for daily use. There is enough range for the general daily driver but don't expect to get super low.

Average Score: 3.383

- Koni FSD Kit

Cost: 3.5. More performance potential than a traditional coilover at a lower cost. Light on features.
Handling: 4.5. Koni valving is indisputable in it's ability to handle abuse
Ride Quality: 5. May be the best ride/handling balance you can get. This system feels very close to stock when adjusted softer.
Ability to tune: 3. The tuning is difficult on the damper firmness since there are no "clicks" to help distinguish stiffer from softer. Height is essentially NON-ADJUSTABLE.
Craftsmanship: 4. The design works. Koni shocks are the basis for this kit which are world renown for their quality and performance ability. They can be tricky to assemble because of their Ikea-like European-friendly instructions. A slight learning curve in tuning as well. But once you figure it out this is a really rewarding kit.
Height Range: 0.5. If you want to change the ride height you need to change springs.

Average Score: 3.417

- Function & Form Type 1 & Type 2

Cost: 3 (Type 1), 4.5 (Type 2). Another low cost leader. Type 1 offers slightly less features compared to similarly price coilovers. Type 2 adds adjustable dampers.
Handling: 3 (Type 1), 3.5 (Type 2). Overall, good planted handling. Lack of adjustable dampers on Type 1 hinders better handling.
Ride Quality: 2.5 (Type 1), 3 (Type 2). Most people report a fairly firm ride. Usually either accepted/preffered by younger owners or justified because of the low cost.
Ability to tune: 2.5 (Type 1), 3.5 (Type 2). 2.5 for the Type 1's due to no adjustable dampers. 3.5 for the Type 2's with its 32 levels of damping adjustment. Independent preload and height adjustment.
Craftsmanship: 3. Good out of the box. Eibach tested these dampers to make sure they were "up to par" with their brand identity of highly engineered product, and they passed the test. Exceptional product support and customer service.
Height range: 4. Goes from a 1.5" drop to toe-smashingly low. The widest range we've seen, although we wish it went a bit higher.

Average score: 3.0 (Type 1), 3.583 (Type 2)

- BC Racing BR Series

Cost: 4. A tad pricier for what you get when compared to its competitors.
Handling: 3.5 Like other similarly price coils, it offers exceptional handling on the street. Cornering feels planted... it's like you're on rails.
Ride Quality: 3.5. Larger pistons and damper body offers improved ride and performance.
Ability to tune: 3.5. 30 levels of damping allow you to fine tune the ride to your liking.
Craftsmanship: 3. Greater attention is given to its design and build, though quality control of parts is unknown. Dampers are rebuildable should anything happen to them.
Height Range: 4. You can slam it to the ground or go for a modest drop.

Average Score: 3.583

- Ksport Kontrol Pro

Cost: 4.5 Lots of features for the price.
Handling: 3.25 Offers a firm planted ride.
Ride Quality: 1.80 Most people report a very firm ride due to stiff springs.
Ability to tune: 3 Offers 36 levels of damping adjustment, but each level is not very accurate due to not so great valving. Height adjustment independent from spring perch.
Craftsmanship: 2 Another coilover with high initial quality, but longevity is questionable. Lots of mixed long term reviews. Unknown quality control and source of parts.
Height range: 4 Has a wide range of height adjustability from slammed to almost stock height.

Average score: 3.092

8thGenInspire · Jan 13, 2010

HFP (HONDA FACTORY PERFORMANCE) SUSPENSION

Why would I want to go with this setup?

HFP Sport Suspension is a OEM solution based on a matched spring/strut combination. Unlike only installing springs, the HFP's struts are designed and balanced for the slight drop (approx 1") provided by the lowering spring.

Which cars is this designed for?

The HFP Suspension is designed for 6-cylinder coupes. However, some 4-cylinder coupes owners have had success putting them on the manual transmission version.

Is it difficult to install?

HFP suspension is a direct bolt in replacement just like with a coilover.

Is it adjustable like coilovers?

The HFP has no height or damping adjustments.

Will I need a camber kit?

The drop will increase the amount of negative camber in the rear, but it is within factory specs after an alignment. Some have added a 1 arm camber kit in the rear to address the camber issue and reduce uneven tire wear.

What's the cost?

Honda retail is approx. $850, but it can be found for less.

$585 from College Hills Honda

$540 shipped from MagAuto (Manual Transmission)

$600 shipped from MagAuto (Auto Transmission seems slightly more expensive)

Here are the Honda part numbers:

A/T: 08W60-TE1-100A
M/T: 08W60-TE1-100B

**Special thanks to "Hittman" for this information**

SPRINGS

Price

They can range in price from $150 (Megan) to $200 (H&R, Eibach, Tanabe) to $250 (TEIN).

Pro's and Con's

Only replacing the OEM springs with lowering springs will be significantly less expensive than coilovers, but doing so usually wears out the OEM struts faster since they weren't designed for lowering springs.

Generally, if the springs lower your car by approx. 1" or less, the possibility of prematurely wearing out the OEM struts is smaller. If the springs lower more than 1", then the possibility of prematurely wearing out the OEM struts is greater.

There is no set mileage of when the OEM struts will wear out with lowering springs. It could happen in 60K, 80K, 100K, or even 120K miles.

What are my options for replacing springs?

There are many to chose from.

Eibach Pro Kit, H&R Sport Springs, Tein H-Tech or S-Tech, Tanabe, Megan Racing, KSport, etc.

With springs, your ride won’t look “slammed” (super low).

What drop can I get on springs?

Eibach Pro Kit (1.0” F; 1.2” R)

Eibach Sportline (1.5” F, 1.4” R)

H&R Sport (1.5” F; 1.3” R)

H&R pictures: http://www.driveaccord.net/forums/showthread.php?t=38603

Pro Kit pictures: http://www.driveaccord.net/forums/showthread.php?t=22219

How do I install my springs?

Here’s a video: http://www.driveaccord.net/forums/showthread.php?t=40954

You’ll also need a spring compressor ($50 deposit @ AutoZone)

Would the wear and tear of lowering springs be noticeable if I went with springs instead of coilovers?

The wear and tear from springs will definitely be evident after a shorter period of time because it uses your stock shocks, which are not meant to be as compressed as they will be with lowering springs. (Source: user "Zexen")

SUMMARY

Coils = most expensive, allow adjustments, require 3pc camber kit, longevity

HFP = mid-range price, slight drop, won't void factory warranty, not adjustable

Springs = least expensive, no adjustments, can wear out struts faster, “refined look”

Extra Info
When maxed out, the Tein SS will not go as far down as the Megans or KSports (Mochimellow)

Tein SS vs. Tein Basics:
In short, the difference is damping. Both SS and Basics allow for the same drop. However with the SS if you'd like your ride firmer or softer you can adjust that. With Basics, you're stuck with whatever ride they provide.

bruceleroy · Jan 13, 2010

RedBull said:
How will I adjust them?
In short, you’ll jack up your car (like replacing a tire), remove the tire, and then turn a knob on the coilovers with an included tool or a wrench or something of the like. For example, the KSports allow for 36 levels of adjusting. Coilovers are not designed for every day adjusting.
Here’s a picture of what the knob looks like on the Megans (4th picture):
http://www.driveaccord.net/forums/sh...ighlight=megan

um you are talking about 2 different things here one is the dampening and one is the height of the coilovers. you do not need to jack up the car when changing the dampener settings. The way u wrote it is a little misleading.

aeoporta · Jan 13, 2010

added to 8th gen pseudo faq as well, thanks man

http://www.driveaccord.net/forums/showthread.php?t=41153

MSchu · Jan 13, 2010

I don't completely agree with everything written(explanation)... props for a nice effort though

bruceleroy · Jan 13, 2010

MSchu said:
I don't completely agree with everything written(explanation)... props for a nice effort though

yup i concur

Kiribati · Jan 13, 2010

Would the wear and tear of lowering springs be noticeable if I went with springs instead of coilovers? I mean, I don't plan to keep the car modded for long. That's why I ask... I know coilovers are a wonderful investment over time, and you can adjust the ride, but if I am satisfied with the drop of a certain lowering springs, would that be viable? I mean...it'd definitely save me a lot of money if I could get springs, use 'em for a year, then go back to stock.

BigE · Jan 13, 2010

Thanks for summarizing all that info for us. You obviously spent a lot of time typing and linking. MUCH appreciated!!

BigE

zexen · Jan 13, 2010

Kiribati said:
Would the wear and tear of lowering springsbe noticeable if I went with springs instead of coilovers? I mean, I don't plan to keep the car modded for long.

The wear and tear from springs will definitely be evident after a shorter period of time because it uses your stock shocks, which are not meant to be as compressed as they will be with lowering springs.

Coilovers replace your shocks and springs BOTH, therefore giving longer life. Coilovers are for those who like the features or for longevity. Springs are for those who want to spend less, but will see degradation in ride quality within 30k-45k miles.

Dennis · Jan 13, 2010

hmmm those prices seem a bit high... lol i know that mystick got his ksport for like ___=]... and my megans were not much more and tein SS are not 1140... lol so yea might wanna fix that

Danielc409 · Jan 13, 2010

dennisho18 said:
hmmm those prices seem a bit high... lol i know that mystick got his ksport for like 650... and my megans were not much more and tein SS are not 1140... lol so yea might wanna fix that

Most of the people with coils here got them for a discounted price for the most part.

Kiribati · Jan 13, 2010

zexen said:
The wear and tear from springs will definitely be evident after a shorter period of time because it uses your stock shocks, which are not meant to be as compressed as they will be with lowering springs.

Coilovers replace your shocks and springs BOTH, therefore giving longer life. Coilovers are for those who like the features or for longevity. Springs are for those who want to spend less, but will see degradation in ride quality within 30k-45k miles.

Thanks for the answer. 30-45k miles... Well, I plan to ride on springs for a period of 1-2 years which makes it 12-20k miles for me. I definitely want to spend less and I don't mind not having the adjustability that coilovers offer. I've just heard horror stories from friends who use springs so I'm taking a second look at everything.

Vixen89 · Jan 13, 2010

This is what you guys are for! The post can always be review and edited. lol

RedBull · Jan 13, 2010

zexen said:
The wear and tear from springs will definitely be evident after a shorter period of time because it uses your stock shocks, which are not meant to be as compressed as they will be with lowering springs.

Coilovers replace your shocks and springs BOTH, therefore giving longer life. Coilovers are for those who like the features or for longevity. Springs are for those who want to spend less, but will see degradation in ride quality within 30k-45k miles.

Added to the first post. Credited you as the source.

dennisho18 said:
hmmm those prices seem a bit high... lol i know that mystick got his ksport for like 650... and my megans were not much more and tein SS are not 1140... lol so yea might wanna fix that

Then give me the prices. I used those prices because that's what Throwdown offers and he's a forum sponsor (minor advertising). Also, those are the prices that ANYONE can get.

RedBull · Jan 13, 2010

street lights said:
lol so help him if you see that any facts or specs are wrong DOUCHE

mystick6 said:
Everybodies input and prices are different. Just like everyones style, choice of coilover or springs is different. What you need to do is state facts and specs if you are truely trying to help people. >

Can we please just be mature adults here and focus on coils? Ya'll wanna bicker then open a "Street vs. Mystick6 UFC: 156" thread in the pit.

bruceleroy · Jan 13, 2010

RedBull said:
PM me spring, coil, etc. pricing (I'd like links if possible) and I'll update the thread and credit you. But those were his prices a few days ago.

:lmao:

yea dude not professional

this thread should be locked cuz its wack, i mean props for trying but its filled with false information. And for the OP you should really get coils and have experience with coils if you are making this thread.

RedBull · Jan 13, 2010

bruceleroy said:
:lmao:

yea dude not professional

this thread should be locked cuz its wack, i mean props for trying but its filled with false information. And for the OP you should really get coils and have experience with coils if you are making this thread.

Then help fix it or quit complaining.

namegoeshere · Jan 13, 2010

RedBull said:
Why coils?

Coils allow for adjustable ride stiffness.

And here I thought coilovers allowed for height adjustability while the (adjustable) damper adjusted stiffness.

Suspension FAQ - Coilovers, HFP suspension, Springs, Camber Kits

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