Hey guys,

I found a set of used Tanabe Springs that has had the front spring cut so it's close to a 2 inch drop up front. Should I get these? Or just get a set of like eibachs or something? really there are only 2 things stopping me from lowering my car, well 3, Clearance problems in the winter, worried about premature shock death, and also it'll make me want bigger wheels once dropped the stock 18s look so tiny....

Any thoughts are appreciated. Thanks

 

If it were me, I wouldn't take a chance with springs that were cut.

 

Thanks, that was that I thought. Better pay more and get proper springs yeah?

 

Ya, I've never been a fan of cut springs. Just pay a little more and get a new set.

 

Agreed, cutting the spring is never good. If it was, you could just cut the stock spring for free anyhow. But that's not a good idea either.

Hmm...I will think out loud about my conclusion (not promising it is 100% correct). If the spring is progressive then absolutely do not cut the srpings because you are cutting off either from one side or the other and changing the progression of the spring. That one was a no brainer. If the spring is linear then it may not be as bad since the car's weight will "preload" the spring the same way even after the srpings are cut (if you cut an inch off the spring, then the car will sit exactly 1" lower). The problems it introduces are, in no particuar order: 1) more stress on the strut/shock which is operating contantly in a severely compressed state. If you want a severe drop better to go with a coilover; 2) Also you may bottom out the suspension or hit the bump stops permaturely since the spring rate was designed assuming we have the full spring length to stop the car; 3) Finally, a cut spring may be more likely to unseat whenever a wheel lifts off the ground. Depends if the top cap is holding tight before the strut is placed in the car. There may be more reasons but that's what I came up with.

Just thought of another reason. The front spring on our car has different diameter winding at the top vs. the bottom. The diameter probably changes as you go along the spring so if you cut an end off, the diameter will change and it may not sit in the perch properly.

 

I would definitely pass on springs that are cut/fabricated. I recommend just going w/ a new set of Eibach, IMPULS, or Tanabe's if you want a mild drop.

2GoRnot2G (Adrian) got a great mild even drop w/ his Tanabe's.

Search.

 

when i was a broke young lad, i cut the springs on my ol' civic...NEVER AGAIN!!!!!!!!

Don't be cheap man, new springs are in the $200-$300 range for tanabe/eibach. especially on an X, the eibach is as low as you'll want it to go. 1.4" rated eibach front drop gives me 4" clearance underneath.

 

Alright thanks a lot guys, really appreciate it.

 

Yep, that's true.

 

+1

do it right, or don't do it at all.

 

+1 more... don't go there!

 

You don't own a Civic/Teg, do it right the first time cause cut springs is just asking for problems.

 

I'd definitely agree with everyone about not getting cut springs Clement.
Pointless to risk safety for a few bucks.
Don't be so worried about the stock shocks though man, they can handle a drop from any of the springs out for our cars with no problems. Even people with H&R springs haven't had any problems with the shocks after prolonged use. Ask Mike (IvoryPearl07G), he's had them for almost 2 years now.

 

Can you new sedan guys still benefit from the use of the coupe or Z springs? Mild and inexpensive drop.

 

Thanks guys, I'll look into new springs then. For the Eibach the 09 drop less in the rear than the 07 springs, I wonder if the drop would be the same on the 08 because I think the 37 motor is heavier.