dazstarlet Posted February 2, 2013 Share Posted February 2, 2013 (edited) Hey all, need the advice of you guys. My lil' chap is due new suspension based on it's age plus I'm hearing whooshing noises when going over some speed bumps so sounds like it's time for renewal. I have only changed the wheels to a set of Yaris alloys 15", and shod with some fairly average hard compound tyres which of course are much lower profile to maintain the wheel tyre circumference from the original steelies. Although the car handles better now and is less delicate in corners due to the extra wheel width (not helped by the original tyres when purchased somehow being 18 years old based on the tyre markings no idea how a 14 yr old car has 18 yr old tyres, but anyway..), but the ride is somewhat crashy and harsh. I can't stretch budget to coilovers, so can anyone suggest a springs / dampers combo that would help with softening the ride whilst improving it - I don't want to lower the car more than 30mm if possible as it's not a SR/Glanza street machine, I'm trying to make it look fairly classy Toyota stock style as befits an old dude like me! I heard Spax springs are softer and better for a more easy ride quality That was written on Toyota owners forum, so maybe bullsh*t So budget =£500 inc fitting (I'm crap at mechanics so will not be fitting myself). I've been looking at OEM Lesjofers and KYG bits, but could up the anti for some branded springs. I take it I should replace the bushes too? Any help appreciated guys. Edited February 2, 2013 by dazstarlet Quote Link to post Share on other sites
pick1 Posted February 2, 2013 Share Posted February 2, 2013 Speak to td mate or I'd-works about shocks n springs dude if u can't any decent second hand but cj performance av got a group buy on coil overs at mo which would make u see some change from your 500 mate Quote Link to post Share on other sites
rmsnoel Posted February 2, 2013 Share Posted February 2, 2013 I got kyb standard replacements for about £150 the plus £150 for top spec jap lowering springs and they done the job. If you can get coilovers new for under £500 sell all u own and buy th. There alot more comfortable these days and will make your starlet so much fun. Can be set at SR oem rates for daily comfort. If not get a jap brand spring and avoid uk brand chav spring such as apex. Spring sag will break your heart Quote Link to post Share on other sites
steve-gers Posted February 2, 2013 Share Posted February 2, 2013 For £500 budget them DGR coilovers would def be recommended. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Amjad Posted February 2, 2013 Share Posted February 2, 2013 As above, DGR will be £450 and fitting them is easy! They will give a firm but smooth ride! Quote Link to post Share on other sites
dazstarlet Posted February 19, 2013 Author Share Posted February 19, 2013 (edited) I know the CJ Performance coilover group buy is coming to crunch time, and I may still go that route but i'm struggling to justify what will be a £440 coilover cost (which is ok) + £100 for an adjustable pan rod + £150ish for having it all fitted. I only paid £995 for my Starlet! Coughing £700 on suspension for a non turbo seems a bit ott, but I can't see any way of avoiding the purchase of a new adjustable pan rod no matter what springs I buy as they all lower so in theory all force the new pan rod. Is there any option for buying a new cheaper shocks/springs setup like KYB stuff that don't lower the car, and thereby also don't force buying that pan rod without having to resort to finding some 10 year old Starlet springs that have been left gathering dust in a Toyota dealers cupboard? Edited February 19, 2013 by dazstarlet Quote Link to post Share on other sites
rmsnoel Posted February 19, 2013 Share Posted February 19, 2013 You dont Have to fit the panhard rod though ypu may want to in future, lowering with coilovers or springs have the same affect on the drivers rear arch. Bare in mine that I was hittin humpback bridges at 80+ in mine to make it rub. No fat chicks is a must though. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
rmsnoel Posted February 19, 2013 Share Posted February 19, 2013 30mm lowered is about your limit without arch contact. NEVER pay £150 for fitting anything to your starlet.Coilovers are 60quid at most to fit but there a easy diy Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Amjad Posted February 19, 2013 Share Posted February 19, 2013 Coilovers are easy to fit yourself. A few people have made DIY adjustable panhard rods too so maybe you could get one of those cheaper if you put up a request Quote Link to post Share on other sites
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