Finally got the new shocks in over the weekend. Time to share a couple of thoughts!
NB: I'm using the koni yellows (sports) with stock springs on an MPS3 Gen I.
Had full access to a workshop over the weekend which made life MUCH easier. Rattle gun FTW.
Installation:
Rear shocks are VERY easy to install. I read THIS guide before hand but didn't really need to refer to it during the install.
Front shocks are a bit more of a big deal to install. Do yourself a favour and use the "trick" to open the mount that the shock sits in. Be careful though, it's cast iron and liable to crack if you try to push it too far.
Overall the install took less than an hour with 2 of us working.
Impressions:
- I read that these shocks with stock springs have a tendancy to handle better while improving ride comfort / reducing bump harshness. While I don't agree to the extent that some ahve reported it, in my case it is true. The Shocks ARE stiffer, but it seems their rebound dampening is much better than stock giving the better feel.
- Handling: Have the fronts set on the softest settin for now which should net approx 10-15% insreased stiffness over stock. Handling feels improved with a more direct turn in and seemingly less understeer / torquesteer. The rear feels like it follows much better and body roll from the rear feels greatly reduced.
- Accelleration / braking: The attitude on accelleration is greatly improved with the car nolonger sitting on its ass on accelleration. Ditto for under breaking, the car doesn't dive when you hit the skids.
- Ride height: I expected no change in ride heaight, however its definitely sitting higher now. I would say its up a good 10-15mm in the front and Maybe 5-10mm in the back. The front is very noticeable compared to the back.
Overall:
Pros:
- Handling improved
- Accelleration and braking attitude improved
- Less harshness transmitted through the suspension
- Good price as they were second hand
- Easy install with the right tools / facilities.
Cons:
- Ride height has increased (purely cosmetic problem)
I'll be leaving these as is for the time being, if the ride height does not settle, I'll consider some lowering springs that will give it a ~10mm drop once settled in.