Table of Contents
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution has long been celebrated for its performance on both the road and the track. One of the key components that can significantly enhance its capabilities is the suspension system. The Eibach Pro-Kit is a popular choice among enthusiasts looking to improve handling and ride quality. In this article, we will explore the best suspension settings for the Evo on the track, focusing on how to harness the potential of the Eibach Pro-Kit.
Understanding the Eibach Pro-Kit
The Eibach Pro-Kit is designed to lower the vehicle’s center of gravity while improving handling characteristics. This kit includes springs that are engineered to provide a balanced ride, enhancing both performance and comfort. Here are some key features of the Eibach Pro-Kit:
- Lowering the vehicle by approximately 1.0 to 1.5 inches.
- Improved cornering stability and reduced body roll.
- Enhanced overall handling performance.
Choosing the Right Settings
When it comes to suspension settings for track use, it is crucial to consider several factors that affect performance. These include damping, ride height, and alignment settings. Below, we will break down each aspect to help you achieve optimal performance with your Evo.
Damping Settings
Damping settings control how quickly the suspension responds to bumps and weight transfer during cornering. For track use, a stiffer damping setting is often preferred to reduce body roll and improve responsiveness. Here are some tips for adjusting damping:
- Start with a baseline setting recommended by Eibach.
- Increase damping stiffness in small increments for better control.
- Test the settings on the track and adjust based on feedback.
Ride Height Adjustment
Lowering the ride height can improve aerodynamics and lower the center of gravity, both of which are beneficial for track performance. However, too much lowering can lead to bottoming out or reduced suspension travel. Here are some guidelines:
- Aim for a ride height that is low enough to improve handling but maintains adequate clearance.
- Consider the track surface; a slightly higher setting may be beneficial on bumpy tracks.
- Regularly check and adjust ride height as needed, especially after track days.
Alignment Settings
Proper alignment is essential for maximizing tire contact and ensuring even wear. For track use, a more aggressive alignment setting can improve cornering performance. Here are some alignment tips:
- Set front camber to -2.0 to -3.0 degrees for better grip during cornering.
- Adjust toe settings to minimize tire scrub; a slight toe-out can enhance responsiveness.
- Ensure rear alignment settings complement the front for balanced handling.
Testing and Fine-Tuning
Once you have made initial adjustments to your suspension settings, it is essential to test the vehicle on the track. Pay attention to how the car feels during different driving conditions, such as cornering, braking, and acceleration. Here are some steps to effectively test and fine-tune your settings:
- Take note of any understeer or oversteer tendencies.
- Adjust settings incrementally and test after each change.
- Consider using data logging tools to analyze performance metrics.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While tuning your suspension can greatly enhance your Evo’s performance, there are common pitfalls to avoid. Here are some mistakes that can hinder your setup:
- Neglecting to consider track conditions when setting up the suspension.
- Making too many changes at once, making it difficult to identify what works.
- Failing to regularly check and maintain suspension components.
Conclusion
Optimizing your Evo’s suspension settings using the Eibach Pro-Kit can significantly improve your track performance. By carefully adjusting damping, ride height, and alignment, and by conducting thorough testing, you can unlock the full potential of your vehicle. Remember to avoid common mistakes and continuously refine your setup for the best results on the track.