Table of Contents
Adjusting coilovers on your WRX can significantly enhance both street comfort and track precision. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to ensure your suspension setup meets your driving needs.
Understanding Coilovers
Coilovers are a popular suspension upgrade for the Subaru WRX, allowing for adjustable ride height and damping settings. They provide the flexibility to optimize your vehicle’s performance for different driving conditions.
Benefits of Adjusting Coilovers
- Improved handling and stability on the track.
- Enhanced ride comfort for daily driving.
- Customizable height for aesthetic preferences.
Tools Required for Adjustment
- Coilover adjustment tool (if applicable).
- Torque wrench.
- Jack and jack stands.
- Measuring tape.
Step-by-Step Adjustment Process
1. Preparing Your Vehicle
Before making any adjustments, ensure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface. Use a jack to lift the car and secure it with jack stands for safety.
2. Measuring Ride Height
To achieve the desired ride height, measure from the center of the wheel hub to the fender arch on all four corners of the vehicle. This will give you a baseline for adjustments.
3. Adjusting Ride Height
Using your coilover adjustment tool, loosen the locking collar and turn the adjuster to raise or lower the ride height. Make small adjustments, typically no more than 1/4 inch at a time, to avoid drastic changes.
4. Setting Damping Preferences
Most coilovers offer adjustable damping settings. Start with the manufacturer’s recommended settings and adjust based on personal preference. A softer setting enhances comfort, while a firmer setting improves handling.
5. Tightening and Final Checks
Once adjustments are made, tighten the locking collar to secure the settings. Recheck your ride height and damping settings to ensure everything is in place. Use a torque wrench to tighten bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Tuning for Street Comfort
When tuning for street comfort, prioritize a softer damping setting. This will absorb bumps and provide a smoother ride. Consider the following tips:
- Set the damping to a mid-range level.
- Aim for a slightly higher ride height to avoid bottoming out.
- Regularly check tire pressure for optimal contact with the road.
Tuning for Track Precision
For track days, your focus should shift towards enhancing handling and responsiveness. Adjust your coilovers accordingly:
- Increase damping settings for better control during cornering.
- Lower the ride height for a lower center of gravity.
- Ensure alignment is adjusted to match your new settings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Making drastic changes without testing.
- Neglecting to check alignment after adjustments.
- Failing to secure locking collars properly.
Conclusion
Adjusting your WRX coilovers can greatly enhance your driving experience, whether on the street or the track. By following these steps and tips, you can achieve the perfect balance of comfort and precision tailored to your needs.