Coil-Overs - How much pre-load?

[D'Ecosse]

How much pre-load should I put in my coilovers? These are 10 & 9 kg/mm (F/R) springs, 7" free length.
Right now I have about 1/4" compression before installing on the car - is that enough?

If I want to lower the car ~ 1", what is the net length of the shocks from the top of the top plate to the center of the lower mount?
Anyone have the free lengths of the OEM shocks as assembled? I'm sure since the C/O's are stiffer it's not a straight difference in the free lengths - any recommendations appreciated.
(Note: on these C/O's there is separate lower tube adjustment for height w/o affecting the pre-load)

 

[Larry Bastanza]

I think you are fine like you are. On the race car we used to preload them just so when they were in full droop there was no slack. When you say "installed on the car", if you mean on stands in full droop, you are good to go.

What is your ride height now??

HTH,
LarryB

 

[fkong777]

You should only load up the spring so they don't move around unloaded. This will give you full travel. The more you preload the harder the ride will be. preload work against the damper. I believe you only use preload to setup for a certain corner on a track. one street or occasional track use preload is not very useful.

If you have 2 way adjustable coilover you are suppose to adjust the height only with the lower perch.

Yes adjusting the height will be time consuming.

 

[Cairo94507]

Ken - I can't wait until you get you coilovers installed. I want to see how it rides. I love the coilover technology because it allows you to infinitely adjust the ride height to get it where you want it.

Good luck and thanks again, Michael