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The Toyota GR86 has gained immense popularity among car enthusiasts for its exceptional handling and performance. To enhance the driving experience further, many owners consider upgrading their suspension systems with coilovers. This guide will explore the best coilover brands for the GR86, providing a comprehensive installation and setup guide.
What Are Coilovers?
Coilovers are a type of suspension system that combines a shock absorber and a coil spring into a single unit. They allow for adjustable ride height and damping settings, providing a customizable driving experience. With coilovers, drivers can improve handling, cornering stability, and overall ride quality.
Benefits of Upgrading to Coilovers
- Improved Handling: Coilovers provide better control and responsiveness, enhancing cornering capabilities.
- Adjustable Ride Height: Drivers can lower or raise their vehicle to achieve their desired stance and performance.
- Customizable Damping: Many coilovers offer adjustable damping settings, allowing drivers to fine-tune their suspension for different driving conditions.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Lowering the vehicle can improve its appearance, giving it a more aggressive look.
Top Coilover Brands for the GR86
1. BC Racing
BC Racing is known for its high-quality coilovers that offer excellent performance at a competitive price. Their BR Series coilovers for the GR86 provide adjustable ride height and 30 levels of damping adjustment, making them a popular choice among enthusiasts.
2. Fortune Auto
Fortune Auto coilovers are designed for both street and track use. Their 500 Series coilovers feature a unique design that allows for easy height adjustment and a wide range of damping settings. They are highly regarded for their build quality and performance.
3. Tein
Tein is a well-established brand in the suspension industry, offering a variety of coilover options for the GR86. Their Flex Z coilovers provide a balance of comfort and performance, making them suitable for daily driving as well as spirited driving.
4. HKS
HKS coilovers are known for their performance and durability. The Hipermax IV GT coilovers are designed with a focus on enhancing handling while maintaining a comfortable ride. They are a great option for those looking to improve their GR86’s performance.
5. KW Suspensions
KW Suspensions offers high-end coilover systems that deliver exceptional performance. Their Variant 1 coilovers are pre-set for optimal performance, while the Variant 2 and 3 offer adjustable rebound and compression settings for more customization.
Coilover Installation Guide
Installing coilovers on your GR86 can be a rewarding DIY project. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a successful installation.
Tools Required
- Jack and jack stands
- Socket set
- Wrench set
- Spring compressors (if necessary)
- Torque wrench
- Alignment tools
Installation Steps
- 1. Prepare the Vehicle: Park the GR86 on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels.
- 2. Lift the Vehicle: Use a jack to lift the front or rear of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
- 3. Remove the Wheels: Take off the wheels to access the suspension components.
- 4. Remove Old Coilovers: Unbolt the factory struts from the top and bottom. You may need to use spring compressors if you are reusing the springs.
- 5. Install New Coilovers: Position the new coilovers in place and secure them with the provided hardware. Ensure everything is torqued to specifications.
- 6. Adjust Ride Height: Set the desired ride height before tightening all bolts completely.
- 7. Reinstall Wheels: Put the wheels back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- 8. Lower the Vehicle: Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground.
- 9. Torque Lug Nuts: Use a torque wrench to ensure the lug nuts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Setting Up Your Coilovers
After installation, setting up your coilovers correctly is crucial for optimal performance. Here are some tips to help you get started.
1. Adjust Ride Height
Adjust the ride height to achieve the desired look and performance. Lowering the vehicle can improve handling, but be mindful of ground clearance and suspension travel.
2. Set Damping Settings
Many coilovers come with adjustable damping settings. Start with a neutral setting and adjust based on your driving style and conditions. Softer settings provide more comfort, while stiffer settings enhance performance.
3. Get a Professional Alignment
After installation and adjustments, it’s essential to have a professional alignment done. This will ensure that your tires wear evenly and that your vehicle handles properly.
Conclusion
Upgrading to coilovers is a fantastic way to enhance the performance and aesthetics of your Toyota GR86. With various brands available, you can find the perfect coilover system to suit your needs. Follow the installation and setup guide to ensure a successful upgrade, and enjoy the improved driving experience.