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The Toyota AE86 is a legendary car known for its lightweight design and exceptional handling. For enthusiasts looking to enhance cornering performance, installing a Koni suspension kit can make a significant difference. This DIY guide will walk you through the steps to install a Koni suspension kit on your AE86, ensuring better handling and an improved driving experience.
Why Choose a Koni Suspension Kit?
Koni suspension kits are renowned for their quality and performance. Here are a few reasons why you should consider installing one on your AE86:
- Improved Handling: Koni shocks offer better damping, which translates to superior cornering stability.
- Adjustability: Many Koni kits allow for adjustable settings, enabling you to fine-tune your suspension based on your driving style.
- Durability: Koni products are built to last, ensuring that your investment will pay off over time.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before starting the installation, gather the following tools and materials:
- Jack and jack stands
- Socket set
- Wrench set
- Spring compressor
- Koni suspension kit
- Torque wrench
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
Preparation Steps
Proper preparation is crucial for a successful installation. Follow these steps to get started:
- Ensure your AE86 is parked on a flat surface.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels but do not remove them yet.
- Raise the car using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
Removing the Old Suspension
Now that your car is prepared, it’s time to remove the old suspension components:
- Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheels.
- Use the socket set to remove the bolts securing the struts to the steering knuckle.
- Disconnect the sway bar links from the struts.
- Remove the top strut mount bolts from the engine bay.
- Carefully pull the strut assembly out of the wheel well.
Installing the Koni Suspension Kit
With the old suspension removed, you can now install the Koni suspension kit:
- Use a spring compressor to compress the coil spring on the new Koni strut assembly.
- Carefully install the spring onto the strut, ensuring it is seated properly.
- Reinstall the strut assembly into the wheel well.
- Secure the top mount with the bolts, tightening them to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Reconnect the sway bar links to the struts.
- Reattach the struts to the steering knuckle using the bolts.
Final Steps and Adjustments
Once the Koni suspension kit is installed, you’ll need to complete a few final steps:
- Reinstall the wheels and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower the car back to the ground and torque the lug nuts to the specified settings.
- Adjust the Koni shocks to your desired settings based on your driving preferences.
- Take the car for a test drive to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Conclusion
Installing a Koni suspension kit on your Toyota AE86 can significantly enhance your vehicle’s cornering capabilities. With improved handling and adjustable settings, you’ll enjoy a more dynamic driving experience. Remember to always prioritize safety during the installation process and consult a professional if you have any doubts. Happy driving!