How To Stiffen Coilovers

How to Stiffen Coilovers: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you've installed coilovers on your car and you're looking to stiffen them up? Whether you're aiming for improved handling on the track or a more aggressive street presence, understanding how to adjust your coilovers is key. This guide will walk you through the process, offering tips and considerations for achieving your desired ride stiffness.

Understanding Coilover Adjustment

Coilovers offer adjustable damping and ride height. While ride height adjustment is relatively straightforward, stiffening the suspension requires manipulating the damping, specifically the rebound and compression settings.

• Compression: This refers to how quickly the shock absorber retracts after the suspension compresses. Increased compression damping leads to a stiffer ride, reducing body roll and dive under braking.

• Rebound: This is how quickly the shock absorber extends after the suspension compresses. Increased rebound damping also results in a firmer ride, minimizing body bounce and improving handling. However, excessive rebound can lead to a harsh ride and a loss of traction.

Most coilovers use a threaded adjuster to control ride height and separate adjustment knobs or clicks for rebound and compression damping. Some higher-end coilovers might offer more sophisticated adjustments, including independent high- and low-speed damping adjustments.

Steps to Stiffen Your Coilovers

The exact method will depend on your specific coilover setup. Always consult your coilover's instruction manual for detailed guidance. However, the general steps are:

1. Locate the Damping Adjustment Knobs

These are usually located on the top or bottom of the shock body. They may be marked with numbers or letters indicating the damping settings.

2. Determine the Current Setting

Note your starting point. This is crucial for making adjustments and returning to your preferred setting if needed.

3. Adjust the Compression and/or Rebound Damping

Increase the number of clicks to stiffen the suspension. Start with small increments (1-2 clicks at a time) and test the ride before making further adjustments.

4. Test and Adjust Iteratively

Drive your car on a familiar road surface to assess the changes. Pay attention to how the car handles bumps, corners, and braking. Too stiff and you'll experience a harsh ride, sacrificing comfort. Too soft and you'll lose the handling benefits. Fine-tune the settings until you achieve the optimal balance between comfort and performance.

Important Considerations

• Road Conditions: Consider the typical road surfaces you drive on. Stiffer settings are better suited for smooth surfaces, while softer settings might be preferable for rougher roads.

• Driving Style: Your driving style will also influence the ideal stiffness. Aggressive drivers might prefer a stiffer setup, while more relaxed drivers might opt for a softer ride.

• Vehicle Weight: Heavier vehicles might require stiffer damping to control body roll and maintain handling.

• Tire Pressure: Don't neglect the impact of tire pressure. Incorrect tire pressure can significantly affect handling and ride comfort, potentially masking the effects of coilover adjustments.

• Safety: Always prioritize safety. Never make drastic adjustments without understanding the potential consequences. If you're unsure about anything, consult a professional mechanic.

Conclusion

Stiffening your coilovers is a process of iterative adjustments and testing. Remember to start with small changes, carefully assess the results, and prioritize safety. By following these steps and considering the factors mentioned above, you can fine-tune your coilover settings for the perfect balance between performance and comfort.