5 replies to this topic

[frenchfancrx]

Hello,
I've reading this in the FAQ : "The cheap choice is to get a set of Integra or Civic Wagon springs from the junkyard and cut a coil or two off of them"
??
Cut a coil? Not good choice I think, somebody try it? Not problem with car, feeling?

[cbstdscott]

Hello,
I've reading this in the FAQ : "The cheap choice is to get a set of Integra or Civic Wagon springs from the junkyard and cut a coil or two off of them"
??
Cut a coil? Not good choice I think, somebody try it? Not problem with car, feeling?

I wrote that and I did it on my car. It worked fine.

I now have a set of Ground Control Coil Overs on my car. Even better.

Scott

[DEIVIONCRX]

Cutting a spring just lowers the spring rate, so you will have a softer ride than normal, but you also lower the car so it looks better.

The only problem you run into is if you cut too much off, or your shocks are worn out and the car starts riding on the bump stops.

[1985 CRX SI]

Cutting a coil ups the spring rate.

Cutting a spring just lowers the spring rate, so you will have a softer ride than normal, but you also lower the car so it looks better.

The only problem you run into is if you cut too much off, or your shocks are worn out and the car starts riding on the bump stops.

[Greg Gauper]

Cutting a coil increases the spring rate.

Edit: Oops....sorry, didn't see your post above the quote.

Edited by Greg Gauper, 15 March 2008 - 08:05 PM.

[lambs]

Cutting a coil increases the spring rate.

Yes it does.

One of the problems with cutting springs is that it inevitably removes the 'finishing' coil. That is, the specially formed contact end face(s) that allow for even distribution and transfer of load into the coil. Not having the finishing coil results in abnormal loads on the 'new' end coil (ie part of a full coil) and can lead to premature fatigue failure with, potentially, sudden changes in handling of the car.

All that said, I've done it for race cars without problem, but it's usually illegal for road cars (well, it is in terms of car roadworthiness in all states of Australia as far as I know).