Matching Springs with Shocks

GT-apb

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I'm looking into getting lowering springs, the FRPP P-Springs, as I don't want a crazy amount of drop. My question is, do I need to match new shocks with the springs? ie, do I need the FRPP shocks, or can I get replacement stockers, or some other brand?
 

07 Boss

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You would think that they would valve the shocks to match up well with their own springs but who knows? It's kind of trial and error and many opt for adjustable shocks and struts. Much depends on your own preference. What might be good for one might not be good for you.
 

Mackitude

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I have the Koni orange with FRPP Ps, love it. Smoother ride than stock and firms up nicely in the corners
 

Rick Simons

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As a general rule, stiffer springs will need more low speed rebound damping and less high speed compression damping. The short answer is damping must be matched to get the most from the springs.
 

GT-apb

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I'm definitely looking to match the damping, as I want a nice ride, just a little lower. Ill look into the Konis
 

Vorshlag-Fair

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Lowering springs aren't almost any stiffer than the stock springs - they are just shorter. Sometimes they are even softer. Don't believe the fake spring rates touted by the spring sellers, as its all bunk.



We have rated all manner of springs on an actual spring rating machine. The trick the lowering spring makers do is take the spring to COIL BIND and measure just off that. So their claims of "400 pounds per inch!" are all fake. They all tend to be within 0-40% stiffer than the stock rates. Meaning: not enough difference to matter for shock valving.

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For an adjustable, monotube coilover setup on the S197 we start the front rates at 450 #/in and go up to 1000 #/in. THAT is when you need to worry about valving, shock construction (twin tube vs monotube), etc.

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For lowering springs all you get is lowering - just "style points", not any handling or track worthy improvements. And all of the lowering comes at the cost of "bump travel". If it lowers the car 1.5", then you just lost 1.5" of bump travel.

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There is no magic spring set. Ford Racing "P" Springs - 1" Front / 1" Rear. Ford Racing "K" Springs - 1.5" Front / 1.5" Rear. That's all you should worry about: how much do you want it to lower? The rest is just window dressing.

Cheers,
 

GT-apb

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Thank you very much for the reply, that was an excellent response which broke down what I wanted to know. I'll be sticking with the stock shocks and save myself some money. :biggrin:
 

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