Ok... dumb question time (coil over kits)

[mspiegle]

What defines coil-over suspension? Is it just an adjustable MacPherson setup?

I had wanted to get the GC coil-over kit for my weekend/track car, but since it has linear springs, it might be too harsh for weekend driving (can anyone confirm this?).

What if I used progressive springs in place of the linear springs? Or does that completely defeat the purpose? Or maybe it isn't even possible for some reason?

[Digitalwave]

For E30's, coil overs basically means adjustable spring perches. They almost all use 2.5" ID race springs as well, which are also in turn all linear as far as I know. The closest you can get is to use a softer "tender" spring to help make the ride less harsh.

[Brew]

My 350f/475r GC setup with Koni SA's is perfectly streetable, I think.

The rear is not a true coil-over setup, just an adjustable spring perch like TJ said. You can get a true rear coil-over setup for our cars, but the strut towers need to be "massaged" and reinforced, not to mention you lose tire clearance.

[Mystikal]

...and tender springs are not a viable option, according to a local guy. There is just too little strut travel up front for them (he worked it all out mathematically, I trust his words).

[Digitalwave]

...and tender springs are not a viable option, according to a local guy. There is just too little strut travel up front for them (he worked it all out mathematically, I trust his words).

Makes sense to me, with the dismal shock travel we have...

[mspiegle]

Hmm... well, it sounds like the GC coilover idea might be out then. I think i'll start with some Koni SA shocks and IE springs. Chances are, its probably more than enough for me since i'm a beginner.

thanks for the info!

[Axxe]

The IE springs ride very nice but still are stiff enough for track. With thicker sway bars they would do really well.

[Mystikal]

For the street, progressive springs make a lot more sense.

That said, I've gotten completely used to my GC setup now. As linear coils I appreciate their strengths and live with the downsides happily. In fact I'm installing stiffer springs next week.