Best way to lower

[jgray1978]

I've read a lot of posts on here about installing lowering springs and I have read some that say that coilovers are better. I'm really a suspension noob so needing some advise here. I've replaced shocks and struts in the past on standard automobiles so I'n not a complete idiot.

Anyway, for starters... I'm running Americana Bravado wheels (10" front and 11" read) I've got 275/40/20 up front and 315/35/20 in the rear. Currently NT05 but will likely be changing to NT05r. So the first question is, how much drop can I do without rubbing? Is there any drop that is ride comfort neutral? Would I be better going with lowering springs or coilovers if budget is not of high concern (not going all crazy though)?

[Tmick5jr]

yes, coil overs are better than lowering springs, but not everyone has 2-4k to spend on some nice ones. i don't know the offset on your rims so its hard to say if you will rub or not at certain ride heights. but if the wheels are in line with the fenders then you could probably go 2 inches or so on coilovers with a slight adjustment to your camber. if you go with lowering spring i think the lowest anyone really makes is like a 1.7 inch. I went with hotchkis 1 inch and it looks perfect imo. When i dropped mine there was a very slight difference in comfort. a little bit stiffer. and if budget was not a concern, i would be all over a set of coilovers.

[BMR Sales]

Todd is on target!!! Coilovers are definitely better than lowering springs, not only for the performance aspect, but also because of the adjustability. As Todd mentioned, the problem is coilovers are EXPENSIVE!!! On a restricted budget, lowerings springs are a good option. We do not recommend lowering more than 1.5" max. Our new 1.25" springs (SP077) are a great "mid-drop" option between the other 1.0" and 1.4" springs that we offer. Ride quality will be a little stiffer, but certainly not jarring.

[jamesfg49]

I went with the BMR 1.25 drop springs. Alot of my previous vehicles have been lowered and I cannot be happier with the ride with the BMR's. They aren't bouncy or too stiff. And the 1.25 drop gives the car a really nice stance.

[jgray1978]

Do coilovers ride any better than lowering springs?

[JDP Sales]

Coilovers are really where it's at if you have the funds. The adjustability and ability to get the height and damping just where you want it is very nice to have. That being said, there is nothing wrong with lowering springs as long as you don't go too low. Like Keith @ BMR said; just don't go lower than 1.5", otherwise you'll be out of the efficiency range of the OEM dampers which will lead to reduced shock life and a bouncy ride.

I prefer to stay in the 1-1.25" range. BMR's 1.25" springs; part # SP077 are a killer value and I'd suggest RideTech or Detroit speed for coilovers.

Originally Posted by jgray1978

Do coilovers ride any better than lowering springs?

Yes they do, and perform better.

Feel free to call, PM or email me anytime with questions.

Best regards,

Tyler
888-308-6007

[jgray1978]

So what are the go-to coilovers here? I'm seeing some raving about BC Racing and I've found that they are around $1k for a set. Not bad.

[JDP Sales]

Originally Posted by jgray1978

So what are the go-to coilovers here? I'm seeing some raving about BC Racing and I've found that they are around $1k for a set. Not bad.

They're not bad, but they're a pretty generic setup. If your car is really meant for street use then they are okay.

The most affordable/best bang for the buck coilovers in my opinion are RideTech. They're US made with Fox shocks, Hyperco springs and come with a 1,000,001 mile warranty from a company who's been in business for almost 20 years now, so you know they're not going anywhere.

Best regards,

Tyler
888-308-6007

[jgray1978]

Anyone with any input on these versus coilovers? http://www.apex-speed.com/ride-tech-...-11500299.html

[Dexman1349]

I should add that "better" ride is subjective. I love how my car feels with ZL1 springs on it (lowered about an inch, stiffer than my stock SS). However my wife hates how bumpy the car feels. It's much more responsive in the corners and I love how it feels "connected" to the road, but if you are looking for a smooth Caddy ride you won't find it with lowering springs.

Some coilovers have both adjustable height AND adjustable dampening. The vast majority of affordable and track-worthy coilovers (read: sub $2500) are only adjustable height and can be a relatively stiff ride. There are a couple cheap options out there (Megan's can be found for under $1000 and are double adjustable), but they are really only for street use as they aren't really designed for the rigors of the heavy beast known as the Camaro.

I don't want to scare you off of modding the car, just know that when most of us say the ride is "better" with lowering springs or coilovers, it's typically stiffer and less "cruiser" friendly.


Edit: I have no idea how air-ride systems work or feel. I have read they are smoother and are capable of going really low, but by no means should they be used for track applications. I would even hesitate using them for "spirited" driving.

[jgray1978]

Originally Posted by Dexman1349

... if you are looking for a smooth Caddy ride you won't find it with lowering springs...

Amusingly enough, I came to the Camaro family from my 2008 Cadillac DTS Lux-III. The wife drove the Caddy until last Tuesday when I traded it in for a 2014 2SS/RS that she was really wanting... So now we are a Double-Trouble family.

[rozay]

i just purchased my 1.25 springs from BMR