Quote Originally Posted by rayray086 View Post
Ah, I didn't think of that way...

So what about coilover systems that originally don't use a helper spring? E.g. the Koni don't use a helper spring but I suppose that's made up for with a progressively-wound spring instead (http://www.velocitymotorcars.com/ima...over_d-131.jpg). However there are other coilover systems that seem to use an "ordinary" (for want of a better word - non-progressive?) main spring with no helpers at all, like the Ksports - http://media.photobucket.com/image/k.../k-sports1.jpg. How would they combat the problem? The way I see it, they'll work exactly like the Hottunings without a helper spring, except spring rate may be different.

Andrew: yeah the low thing is just all for looks. Yes it can be uncomfortable, and unsafe re: suspension travel, but on the road I just see it as a matter of the driver's restraint... it still drives and handles OK on the road, just don't be a maniac behind the wheel (pretty much the mentality behind driving a fast car). I'm pretty sure I will get flamed for this but I have the same opinion as you but in regards to power - I don't see the use in having so much power in a road car, unless it's also being used for the track. My 2.0L 8V Mk3 is slow (can I get an award for Most Obvious Quote please?) but it's enough to do the daily commute while still have some fun on a spirited run... (or maybe this is just the jealousy talking ).


It depends on the spring rate of the spring in that kit and the valving of the damper itself. I'm not going to go into it too deeply because i can't explain it all it one post as far as shock control and suspension balance etc goes, but...

In the case of the Hottunings, they have a very hard main spring, so the main spring has little sag (how much the spring compresses when from being static to when the vehicle is placed on the ground) compared to a regular run of the mill street car spring, hence what i said about the helper spring in my last post..

Now, if you have a softer spring it will sag more, which in turn means it can extend further on an uneven surface and can help follow the road better. Then you can have your shock control to suit more on the handling side..

Springs and suspension is very, very complicated. Not all springs are the same. There are many variables eg: Overall diameter, material diameter, number of coils, spring material, heat treatment etc. And then you have the dampers...