quick spring rate q

*rxm6* · 02-06-2009, 11:13 AM

So I have read a myriad of threads regarding co's and spring rates, but I still have a question.

From my research, I take it that a spring with a rate of 6kg would be more spongy than a spring with a rate of 9kg? Right?

Ok, so after reading a few co threads, I see that maximas are very diverse in the spring rates used. So my question is, when I choose a spring rate, how do i know its right for my car?

That seems like a very broad question, but what I'm really after is ride comfort for dd and stiff for track. What I don't understand is what part of that is dependent on the spring itself? Or is all that dependent on the co?

i am

MrDicks95SE · 02-06-2009, 01:41 PM

higher springs rates means it takes more force to compress the spring so in turn it will be stiffer. the reason why CO's have such high rates is that generally the car will be fairly low to the ground, lower than conventional lowering springs, not to mention the CO assembly being shorter than stock. thus you need a stiff setup to prevent bottoming out (if theres no separate height adjustment) and scraping the car on the ground. do keep that in mind if you plan on going lower than normal with soft spring rates.
not only spring rates but damper valving and adjustments that can also make or break how the car handles. adjust the dampers according to spring rate... you'll be able to tell what will fit youre driving style. with stiff springs and a soft damper gives a very bouncy ride. the dampers cant keep up with the springs. and viceversa with soft springs and stiff dampers. they work in conjunction with each other. usually going with the manufacturer recommended spec is the best way to go, unless you know exactly how you want the dampers valved and what rates you want. thats a custom job which will cost you extra for obvious reasons.

the general maxima spring rates arent very diversed. the manufacturers tend to go with 9kg front and 6kg rear. you'll see that across the board give or take 1kg. if you want a slightly softer less aggressive ride, go 8kg front and 5kg rear and adjust the dampers accordingly. some want more handling characteristics more than comfort, so therefore they go with higher spring rates and turn up the damper adjustment to accomodate the higher spring rate. its not such a hard concept to grasp.

*rxm6* · 02-06-2009, 02:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr****s95SE

its not such a hard concept to grasp.

no, its not after that explanation. thanks.